On the occasion of World Environment Day today, the Access Sharjah Challenge (ASC), an initiative developed by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) announced an impressive array of entries from around the globe, as the ASC 2023 concludes its application process, drawing attention to the urgent need for environmental action.
Endorsed by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change & Environment and in partnership with BEEAH Group and Sharjah Sustainable City, emboldens entrepreneurs to turn their visions into reality while bolstering Sharjah’s standing as a global sustainability leader. Winners of ASC 2023 will receive comprehensive business setup support through a paid contract for implementation, mentorship, and recognition and the opportunity to engage in the UAE’s Year of Sustainability initiatives and showcase their ideas. The challenge offers a global stage for creative ideas and problem solving, reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a leading authority in green businesses.
Elevating entrepreneurs to meet the environmental challenges in the world
ASC 2023 consists of two categories, both of which seek achievable solutions to the environmental concerns within cities. The first category, “Achieving Net Zero,” in collaboration with Sharjah Sustainable City, sets forth the ambitious goal of enabling cities to achieve a neutral carbon footprint. It calls upon entrepreneurs to implement innovative strategies to combat the environmental impacts of urban living, while also championing concepts that inspire residents to reduce their own carbon output through sustainable consumption and behavioural change. This category stands as a testament to the power of individual actions and serves as an inspiration for cities worldwide to embrace sustainability.
The second category, “Transforming Waste Management,” in collaboration with BEEAH, envisions a future where cities exist without the burden of waste. It challenges entrepreneurs to develop solutions that support effective on-site waste treatment and segregation, empowering communities to efficiently manage waste while experiencing a seamless and effortless process. By tackling waste management practices head-on, this category revolutionises the way we perceive and interact with waste, paving the way for a waste-free environment.
Explaining the drive behind the global entrepreneurial hub, Najla Al-Midfa, CEO of Sheraa said, “At Sheraa, we recognise that entrepreneurship is a force that transcends individual enterprises, it is a catalyst for progress, disruption, and meaningful impact. Each entrepreneur who dares to challenge the status quo, who embraces uncertainty, and who fearlessly pursues their dreams is an agent of change, shaping a better future for themselves and for generations to come.”
Going on to expand on the impact of this year’s challenge, the CEO stated, “Through the Access Sharjah Challenge, we aim to enable founders with solutions to tackle issues within sustainability and build right here in Sharjah. Together with our partners Sharjah Sustainable City and Beeah, we are excited to support the incredible ideas that have been submitted this year. By creating an ecosystem that supports and empowers innovators, we can foster a culture of entrepreneurship that drives positive change and transforms lives.”
Ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come
ASC 2023 also aligns within the “We Are the Emirates 2031” vision, and represents a new step towards progressing the development process of the UAE for the next decade, highlighting its pioneering model and global position. The challenge also falls in line with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s goals to strengthen cooperation and collaboration between the future industry leaders and established entities and companies concerned with environmental and municipal work to ensure the achievement of the UAE’s overall vision and goals in terms of global environment indicators.
Creating a legacy of opportunity and support
The Access Sharjah Challenge has a remarkable history of fostering entrepreneurship and catalysing innovation with global reach spanning across 7 regions of Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, North America, South America and Australasia since it was inaugured in 2020.
