Business Feasibility Students Inspired by Visit to Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center

Students in the Business Feasibility & Planning class recently conducted a field visit to the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center. Accompanied by course instructor Dr. Antony Andrews and Assistant Instructor Kiran Zafar, the visit included an official tour of the centre and a comprehensive overview of the support services available to entrepreneurs, particularly young ones.

Sheraa Programs Coordinator Shaikha AlHarmoodi delivered an insightful presentation on creating an effective business pitch. Each visiting student was given the opportunity to present the business idea they had been developing in the course throughout the semester. One of the presenters was Management major Mozoun Ahmed who presented her proposal for an AI walking sticks venture, inspired by her ageing grandparents and their need to be independent and safe. Her proposal includes a walking stick equipped with GPS and AI-powered features to provide safety and assistance to the elderly around the UAE. Mabel Oladokun, an accounting major, showcased her business plan for starting an aeroponic agriculture farm in Nigeria aimed at transforming Nigerian agriculture and promoting self-sufficiency in the country. All students received valuable feedback from the presenters and were invited to participate in the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival in 2025. Valuable feedback from the Sheraa staff included tips for students on how to present their ideas effectively, what support is available for young entrepreneurs, and common mistakes to avoid when securing funding.

The students pronounced themselves enriched by the experience of gaining awareness of the numerous support services available to them. “What stood out to me most were the real-world examples the facilitators shared both successful pitches and ones that missed the mark”, said Mozoun Ahmed. “I now have a much better understanding of the kind of information investors want to see and how to structure a pitch deck that will get them excited about my venture… I left feeling inspired and motivated to further develop my own business concept with an eye toward one day presenting it to potential backers.” Added Osamah Nabil Mohammed Alkhalaifeh: “My trip to Sheraa was very informative and educational; listening to how Sheraa works, promotes, and guides startup businesses was a pleasure. We were provided with a number of great advice on how to conduct and present a business idea plan and what to do and not do when pitching an idea to a potential investor. Overall, I would recommend Sheraa to any individual seeking advice and guidance with his/her startup business.”

The students were also full of praise for the hospitality and professionalism of the Sheraa staff. Yaman Hassan Kharbutli spoke for the group when he said "Attending the Sheraa workshop presented by Sheikha and Hissa was an enlightening and transformative experience. Their profound yet convenient guidance on the world of startups, alongside their supportive hospitality, made for a wonderful guiding experience for any aspiring entrepreneurs."