Sharjah Innovation Park launches second edition of accelerator programme

The Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTI Park) has announced the launch of the Sharjah Advanced Industry Accelerator 2.0 (SAIA).

In line with Industry 4.0, the accelerator programme will provide local and regional start-ups with innovative solutions and strong support system within the thriving SRTI Park ecosystem. It will also boost the diversification of the national industrial base and contribute to the positioning of the UAE as an incubator of innovation and creativity.

SAIA 2.0 is also in line with the UAE’s industrial strategy ‘Operation 300bn’, a 10-year comprehensive policy aimed at empowering and expanding the industrial sector to become the driving force of a sustainable national economy, increasing its contribution to the GDP from the current Dh133 billion to Dh300 billion by 2031.

Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of the Sharjah RTI Park, said: “SAIA will focus on supporting early and growth stage start-ups to scale up in the UAE & Mena region, thereby further supporting UAE’s goal to attract world-class talent and innovation.”

He added: “SAIA is also in line with UAE’s Unified Industrial Brand Identity, ‘Make It in the Emirates’, an integrated industrial system that leverages advanced technologies and Fourth Industrial Revolution solutions to contribute to building a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.”

SAIA 2.0 is designed transform Sharjah into a test bed of advanced technologies in research, manufacturing sector, including petrochemicals, plastics, metals, food, agriculture, water, and healthcare, space, biotech, medi-tech, pharmaceuticals, clean and renewable energy, including hydrogen production, machinery and equipment, rubber and plastic and electronics and electrical gadgets.

Al Mahmoudi noted: “SAIA 2.0 will result in limitless potential for growth and establish local start-ups as an integral part of the UAE’s unique success story and a key contributor to the country’s development journey.”