Sharjah wants to instill a can-do entrepreneurial spirit from ground up

In the grand expanse of human progress, one archetype stands as the perpetual protagonist - the entrepreneur.

Time and again, entrepreneurs have proven themselves as architects of progress, seizing opportunities in the midst of change and uncertainty. Their ability to pivot, innovate, and persevere has not only driven individual success but has also reshaped industries and societies.

As we navigate an era defined by rapid technological advancements and global challenges, this entrepreneurial spirit is more vital than ever.

Throughout history, entrepreneurial adaptability has driven transformative change, from Steve Jobs revolutionizing personal technology with Apple to Jeff Bezos transforming global commerce with Amazon. Elon Musk has pushed the boundaries of transportation and energy with Tesla and SpaceX, while regional pioneers like Fadi Ghandour, founder of Aramex, have redefined logistics in the Arab world, and Talabat has transformed food delivery across the Middle East.

Helping entrepreneurs overcome

Today, Sharjah exemplifies this leadership, not only as a learner from history but as a trailblazer shaping its own path. The emirate’s vision and innovation-driven ecosystem have empowered entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and build a resilient, future-ready economy.

Sharjah’s proactive initiatives, including Sheraa’s tailored mentorship programs, funding support, and innovation hubs like the Sheraa Hub at the American University of Sharjah, enabled startups to pivot, innovate, and thrive.

This commitment extends beyond infrastructure to building a mindset of resilience and optimism. A recent report by Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah revealed that 71% of surveyed students scored high on entrepreneurial self-efficacy, surpassing the global average by 16%.

As we look ahead to the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2025 (SEF 2025) promises to be more than just a gathering—it will ignite transformative ideas and fuel entrepreneurial innovation. By uniting a global community of visionaries, investors, and changemakers, SEF 2025 will reaffirm Sharjah’s role as a beacon of progress, driving solutions that address today’s challenges while reshaping the future of industries.

History teaches us one invaluable lesson: embrace change, seek opportunity in adversity, and stay resilient and optimistic in the pursuit of solutions.