The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Foundation (Ruwad), an affiliate of the Sharjah Department of Economic Development, has released its 2025 annual report, detailing a year of significant growth in its support for national entrepreneurial projects. Under the theme “Entrepreneurship that Grows and Transforms,” the report outlines the expansion of services, programs, and initiatives designed to bolster the emirate’s startup ecosystem.
Quick Facts
- Record growth in government procurement from member startups.
- Membership base expanded with hundreds of new entrepreneurs.
- Dozens of training programs and diplomas delivered.
Building an Innovation-Driven Economy in Sharjah
The report underscores Sharjah’s strategic push towards an economy centered on initiative and innovation. H.E. Hamad Ali Abdullah Al Mahmoud, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Economic Development, noted that the 2025 results reflect the emirate’s progress.
“National projects have become an active element in supporting economic development and promoting diversity and sustainability,” said Al Mahmoud. He added that Ruwad plays a pivotal role in “guiding entrepreneurial projects towards growth and expansion by developing its programs and services to turn promising ideas into competitive and sustainable businesses.”
The report suggests that Emirati-led projects are increasingly prepared to capitalize on available economic opportunities, supported by a regulatory and legislative environment that encourages investment.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Founder Support
In 2025, Ruwad recorded notable growth across its services, including an increase in the value of financing provided to projects. The foundation also saw its membership base grow with the addition of hundreds of new members.
Fatima Al Ali, Acting Director of Ruwad, stated that the year’s results prove the foundation’s success in expanding its services and enhancing its support programs. “This has contributed to raising the competitiveness of member projects and creating suitable conditions for their growth and sustainability,” she explained.
Al Ali emphasized Ruwad’s commitment to providing an integrated system that includes financing, training, consulting, and institutional empowerment.
Throughout the year, the foundation executed dozens of training programs and professional diplomas benefiting hundreds of trainees. It also provided specialized consultations, conducted field visits to member projects, and implemented evaluation and development programs to improve operational and administrative efficiency. A key highlight was the record growth in procurement by government agencies from Ruwad’s member projects, signaling their increased competitiveness and ability to meet market demands.
Forging Strategic Partnerships to Expand Opportunities
Ruwad also focused on strengthening its partnerships with public and private sector entities to create new growth avenues for its members.
“The foundation views communication and partnerships as a fundamental pillar in building an integrated entrepreneurial environment,” commented Amina Mohammed, Director of Communication and Partnerships. “The community initiatives, events, and media activities carried out during the year contributed to enhancing the presence of member projects and connecting them with various economic and knowledge opportunities.”
The report also highlights Ruwad’s efforts in community initiatives, participation in specialized exhibitions, and the production of diverse media and awareness content across multiple platforms to boost the visibility of local entrepreneurs.
About Sharjah Entrepreneurship Foundation (Ruwad)
The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Foundation (Ruwad) was established to support and empower Emirati entrepreneurs in the Emirate of Sharjah. As an affiliate of the Sharjah Department of Economic Development, it provides a comprehensive suite of services, including financing, training, mentorship, and business development support, to foster a vibrant and sustainable startup ecosystem.
Source: Sharjah24
