Africa-Press – Eswatini. On 23 October 2025, the second edition of the Seal the Deal 2025 initiative concluded, with nine startups obtaining investment commitments worth over AED 4 million (approximately US$1.08 million).
Organized under the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK) in collaboration with Sheraa, Invest in Sharjah, the American University of Sharjah, and the University of Sharjah, the pitch-day event was held at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre during the Sharjah Investment Forum & WAIPA World Investment Conference 2025.
Each of the nine chosen teams presented a five-minute pitch, followed by a panel Q&A session. The total pledges surpassed AED 4 million, showcasing investors’ enthusiasm for entrepreneurship and Sharjah’s growing innovation ecosystem.
H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SPARK, graced the event, highlighting Sharjah’s dedication to bridging academic innovation with business investment.
SPARK CEO Hussain Al Mahmoudi noted that the initiative has “developed into a distinctive platform that unites academia, investors, and the private sector to turn innovation and scientific research into viable, sustainable business ventures.”
Sheraa Executive Director Sara Al Nuaimi stated that the 2025 edition broadened its reach by incorporating ventures led by students and faculty, along with early-stage companies in Sharjah, effectively expanding the innovation pipeline.
Mohammed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, stated that the initiative demonstrates Sharjah’s approach to converting innovation into viable investments through strong partnerships between academia and the private sector.
The programme focused on start-ups in advanced technology and sustainability fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics and clean-tech, providing founders with opportunities to connect directly with prominent investors including Abdullah Abu Sheikh, Mishal Kanoo and Sherif Beshara.
Organisers highlighted that despite the sizeable investment pledges, the real challenge lies in ensuring follow-through through effective deal structuring, due diligence and commercialisation support to turn commitments into fully funded ventures.
The achievements of Seal the Deal 2025 underscore Sharjah’s emergence as a leading centre for innovation and startup investment, supporting the UAE’s wider ambition to strengthen its entrepreneurial ecosystem and advance a knowledge-driven economy.
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