Sheraa Launches AED5 Million Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund to Empower Startups and SMEs in Key Sectors

Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) has launched the Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund to provide fast-tracked financial, operational, and marketing support for Sharjah-based startups and SMEs. 

Launched under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sheraa, the fund supports businesses in key sectors that play an important role in maintaining economic stability, including manufacturing, food security, and healthcare.

The Fund is aligned with the UAE’s “Proud of UAE” campaign, contributing to broader efforts to support business continuity and economic stability. 

Applications are now open, with a fast-tracked evaluation process designed to speed up funding decisions and ensure timely access to support. 

The Fund offers equity-free, non-repayable grants, alongside support programs and market visibility opportunities. Sheraa aims to mobilize up to AED5 million with the support of its strategic partners across government and private sector entities.

The Fund is designed to support established businesses facing current challenges, helping them maintain operations and move forward with confidence. Startups and SMEs can apply via https://sheraa.ae/erf

The initiative is delivered through a collaborative model, bringing together strategic partners to support Sharjah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through a shared commitment to its continued growth. The Fund focuses on supporting viable businesses that contribute to long-term economic resilience and stability. The fund is supported by Beeah Group, CE- Ventures, National Paints, Al Midfa Investments Group, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Careem, RAK BANK, Floward, Alaan, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK), Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Sharjah Roads & Transport Authority, Sharjah Majid Al Futtaim, Emirates Petroleum Company P.J.S.C, Publicis Groupe, Entrepreneur Middle East, Inc. Arabia,  and Paymob.

Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sheraa, said, “Sharjah’s vision, aligned with the broader direction of the UAE, is rooted in building a resilient, future-ready economy driven by innovation and entrepreneurship. Achieving this requires more than long-term ambition; it calls for systems that respond with clarity and purpose, particularly in moments that test continuity and adaptability. At Sheraa, we see our role as ensuring that founders are equipped to navigate change without losing momentum, and to continue building ventures that create lasting economic value. The Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund reflects this commitment, providing timely support that enables businesses to remain operational, make informed decisions, and contribute to an ecosystem designed to sustain progress and evolve with confidence.”

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, said, “The United Arab Emirates, guided by the vision of its wise leadership, continues to advance the entrepreneurship and SMEs sector, strengthening its competitiveness and ensuring its continuity. As a key driver of national economic growth, this sector plays a central role in accelerating the transition toward a more resilient and sustainable economic model. The launch of the Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund is the latest in a series of initiatives introduced by the Emirate of Sharjah to support this vital sector. It reflects a clear commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and startup founders, safeguarding SMEs, and enhancing their resilience, particularly in light of the current challenges facing the region. In doing so, it contributes to strengthening the national entrepreneurship ecosystem, enabling businesses to sustain their operations with confidence and competitiveness, ultimately reinforcing the UAE’s position as a leading global hub for startups and entrepreneurship.”