Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC) has unveiled a new initiative to spotlight the UAE’s most promising female-led tech startups at Expand North Star 2025, one of the world’s largest startup and investor gatherings.
The council announced it is now accepting applications from women entrepreneurs to secure fully sponsored participation at the event, which will take place from October 12 to 15 at Dubai Harbour, organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy in partnership with GITEX Global.
As part of the programme, SBWC will select eight women-led startups to showcase their ventures on an international stage. Each chosen startup will receive a premium exhibition pod, offering exposure to thousands of visitors, investors, and technology leaders from more than 100 countries.
In addition, the selected founders will gain direct entry into the Supernova Challenge, the world’s largest startup pitch competition, with a prize pool of $214,000 in equity-free grants, including a top prize of $100,000.
Empowering Women Innovators
Maryam Bin Al Shaikh, Director of SBWC, highlighted that the initiative aligns with the council’s mission to position Emirati and UAE-based female entrepreneurs at the forefront of global innovation.
“By empowering our members at Expand North Star, we not only support their growth but also position them to become the next generation of leaders shaping innovation for the region,” she said. “The ‘Supernova Challenge’ is where great ideas meet global opportunity, and we are proud to open that door for female-led startups.”
Eligibility and Applications
To apply, candidates must be founders or co-founders of licensed UAE-based startups operating for less than five years. The lead founder must also hold SBWC membership, which can be applied for during registration. Applications will be evaluated on innovation, market potential, business model strength, traction, and team capability.
Applications can be submitted through the SBWC portal on this link – https://forms.zohopublic.eu/NNC/form/SBWCatExpandNorthStar2025/formperma/-Zx56xCtjG-vHUz1zLGFFtX8-SmFQxIuRvrE_FakxB8
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Beyond the Main Stage
Selected entrepreneurs will also have the chance to compete in specialised categories, including:
- Sustainability Leaders Pitch Competition – awarding a $10,000 grant for startups driving environmental and social impact.
- Fintech & Blockchain Disruptor Award – offering a $10,000 grant for innovative fintech and blockchain solutions.
Building a Strong Ecosystem
Operating under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, SBWC has been a driving force in advancing women in business. Through networking, mentorship, training, and advocacy, the council continues to equip female entrepreneurs with the tools and platforms needed to succeed.
By enabling participation at Expand North Star 2025, SBWC reinforces Sharjah’s position as a hub for female-led innovation, while contributing to the UAE’s broader vision of becoming a global centre for entrepreneurship.
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