Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Emirates Growth Fund Sign MoU to Support SMEs
📋 Key Takeaway: The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and the Emirates Growth Fund have signed a memorandum of understanding to bolster support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups in priority sectors, aiming to diversify the UAE’s economy.
Memorandum of Understanding Signed at ‘Make in the UAE 2026’ Exhibition
The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Emirates Growth Fund, aimed at fostering collaboration to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups operating in nationally prioritized sectors. This agreement, signed during the fifth edition of the ‘Make in the UAE 2026’ exhibition in Abu Dhabi, reflects a strategic effort to enhance the competitiveness of Emirati businesses in productive, industrial, and investment sectors.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber, and Najla Al Midfa, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of the Emirates Growth Fund. The signing was conducted by Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadhi, Director General of the Sharjah Chamber, and Khalifa Al Hajeri, CEO of the Emirates Growth Fund, with several officials from both parties in attendance.
Key Areas of Cooperation and Strategic Partnership
The MoU outlines four main areas for collaboration, including exploring mutual opportunities, enhancing support for SMEs and startups in Sharjah, and improving the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the UAE. It also emphasizes the importance of information exchange and coordination to identify eligible companies and projects for support, as well as providing access to financing and investment opportunities offered by the Emirates Growth Fund.
Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadhi highlighted that the signing of this MoU aligns with the Sharjah Chamber’s strategic objectives to develop the business environment and support entrepreneurs. He noted that the partnership with the Emirates Growth Fund represents a qualitative addition to the services and solutions provided by the Chamber, opening new funding and development channels for the business community in Sharjah.
Commitment to National Economic Diversification
Khalifa Al Hajeri expressed pride in the partnership with the Sharjah Chamber, emphasizing that it embodies the Fund’s commitment to its national role in supporting the diversification of the UAE economy through investments in SMEs operating in priority sectors. He stated that the MoU creates significant opportunities for a diverse business community in Sharjah, which hosts an advanced industrial and commercial base.
The agreement comes at a time of heightened economic activity in the UAE, as local and federal efforts aim to enhance national industry in line with the goals of resilience and entrepreneurship. The Sharjah Chamber’s initiative to strengthen collaboration with leading financial and investment institutions underscores its role in serving the business community and fostering a more integrated and competitive national investment environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the MoU signed between the Sharjah Chamber and Emirates Growth Fund?
The MoU aims to enhance support for SMEs and startups in priority sectors to diversify the UAE’s economy.
When and where was the MoU signed?
The MoU was signed during the ‘Make in the UAE 2026’ exhibition in Abu Dhabi from May 4 to 7.
Who were the key officials present at the signing?
Key officials included Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Najla Al Midfa, Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadhi, and Khalifa Al Hajeri.
What are the main areas of collaboration outlined in the MoU?
The MoU focuses on exploring opportunities, enhancing support for SMEs, information exchange, and access to funding.
How does this MoU align with the UAE’s economic goals?
The MoU supports the UAE’s goals of economic diversification and strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
