SEFFY Awards 2026
Celebrating the Visionaries Shaping our Future
The SEFFY Awards honor founders, mentors and enablers making an impact in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, celebrating innovation, social impact, and mentorship. Join us in recognizing those who lead with purpose.
Nominations close by 1st February 2025
Award Tracks
Each year, the SEFFY Awards highlight the extraordinary achievements of founders, mentors, and enablers who drive growth, inspire innovation, and create a positive impact across the entrepreneurial landscape. From tech innovation to social impact, SEFFY recognises those whose work truly makes a difference.
Rising Star
Recognizes young founders making waves with fresh ideas and impactful achievements
Social Impact
Recognizes founders driving positive, sustainable change through responsible practices and social ventures
Technology
Recognizes founders who are reimagining the future through innovative technological advancements
Ecosystem Enabler
Recognizes individuals who champion startups by building partnerships and creating pathways for collaboration and growth
Outstanding Mentor
Recognizes outstanding mentors who give back by empowering founders with guidance, expertise, and support.
Be Part of the SEFFY Legacy
5 Nov 2025
Applications Open
31 Dec 2025
Applications Close
20 Jan 2026
Shortlist Announced
2 Feb 2026
Winners Announcement
Lorem ipsum sit amet, consectetur adipiscing.
Lorem Ipsum
Lorem Ipsum
Lorem Ipsum
Lorem Ipsum
Nominate
Judging
Shortlist Announcement
Winners Revealed
Celebrating SEFFY Alumni
Explore the stories of past winners and discover how their contributions are shaping the future.
Jay Sadiq
Tech
Rama Kayyali
Social Impact
Dr. Ahmed Al-Ali
Tech
Munir Basmaji
Abdulla Alhashimi
How We Choose Our Winners
The SEFFY Awards are judged by a panel of industry leaders, and ecosystem enabler partners who bring an experienced perspective to the judging process.
Differentiation and Relevance
- How is the solution different from what already exists ?
- Why is this difference relevant to the specific challenge, and how does it create more value for the customers?
Scale and Investment Worthiness
- Could this venture scale successfully?
- Would you be interested to ask for a term sheet?
Founders' Expertise/ Experience
- Has this founder already succeeded in similar fields/ entrepreneurial ventures in the past?
Impact
To what extent can the venture change the lives of people in a
meaningful way?
Innovativeness
Founders’ Expertise/ Experience
Vision and Execution
Early Achievement
Innovation and Potential
Contribution to the ecosystem
Championing founders’ success
Has the mentor been deeply involved in certain ventures, and how meaningful was their help to the founder(s) in overcoming their challenges?
Mentor Contribution
Has this mentor already succeeded in making a difference for one or many founders?
Fostering Collaboration
Driving Resources and Access
Sustained Impact
How has the enabler’s work contributed to long-term, measurable improvements in the local or regional startup ecosystem?
Nominate a Change-Maker Today!
Help us recognize the founders, mentors & enablers driving real impact. Nominate now and celebrate those who make a difference in the startup community.
LOCATION MAP
FOLLOW US TO STAY UPDATED
ABOUT SHERAA
The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) is committed to building a dynamic ecosystem for entrepreneurs in the UAE. Through year-round initiatives, programs, and SEF, Sheraa offers resources, mentorship, and valuable connections to empower the next generation of innovators.