Sharjah Advanced Industrial AI Accelerator
Global Open Call Now OpenTurn deployable Industrial AI technologies into real-world opportunities in Sharjah.
A SPARK initiative connecting high-potential Industrial AI companies with industry opportunities, technical capabilities and Sharjah's innovation ecosystem to accelerate validation, commercialisation and growth.
Why Join?
Selected companies will have the opportunity to engage with SPARK's innovation ecosystem, industry partners and relevant technical capabilities, with support focused on technology validation, market access, commercialisation and potential growth in Sharjah.
- Engagement with relevant industry partners and opportunities
- Technology validation and potential pilot opportunities
- Access to relevant SPARK AI Hub capabilities
- Access to SOILAB prototyping capabilities, where relevant
- Connections with research and talent capabilities
- Market-entry and business development support
- Corporate, investor and ecosystem introductions
- Support to explore potential establishment and growth at SPARK
- Opportunity to compete for the US$100,000 cash prize pool
Who Should Apply?
The Global Open Call welcomes:
- Startups
- Scale-ups
- SMEs
- Specialised Technology Providers
- Corporate Innovation Teams
Applications are open to companies from the UAE and internationally.
You should apply if you:
- Have a working Industrial AI product, tested prototype or deployable technology
- Have evidence of customers, pilots, deployments or technical validation
- Have a capable technical and commercial team
- Can support potential deployment in the UAE
- Have credible commercial and regional growth potential
- Are interested in exploring opportunities in Sharjah and potential future presence at SPARK
Technology Areas
- 01
Predictive Maintenance & Asset Intelligence
Solutions that improve equipment performance, reliability and maintenance.
- 02
Computer Vision for Quality & Safety
AI-powered inspection, quality control, monitoring and workplace safety.
- 03
Industrial Robotics & Autonomous Systems
Robotics, automation and autonomous technologies for industrial environments.
- 04
Digital Twins, Simulation & Intelligent Production
Technologies supporting smarter production, simulation and industrial optimisation.
- 05
Energy, Water, Waste & Resource Optimisation
Solutions improving resource efficiency, sustainability and industrial performance.
- 06
Warehouse, Supply Chain & Industrial Logistics
AI and automation solutions improving industrial logistics and supply chains.
- 07
Industrial Cybersecurity & Secure AI
Solutions protecting industrial systems, infrastructure, data and AI environments.
- 08
AI-Supported Design, Engineering & Workforce Productivity
AI technologies improving engineering, design, decision-making and workforce productivity.
How It Works
- 1
Apply
Submit your company, technology and use-case information.
- 2
Evaluation & Shortlisting
Applications will undergo technical and commercial evaluation.
- 3
Selection
Successful applicants will be selected to progress into the programme.
- 4
Programme & Validation
Selected companies will work toward technology validation and relevant industrial and commercial opportunities.
- 5
Final Showcase
Selected companies will present their solutions, with the opportunity to compete for the programme cash prizes.
Cash Prize
- 1st PlaceUS$50,000
- 2nd PlaceUS$30,000
- 3rd PlaceUS$20,000
Important Information. Submission of an application does not guarantee selection, funding, procurement, investment, licensing approval, pilot deployment or a commercial contract. Participation and programme support are subject to evaluation, due diligence, partner requirements and applicable programme terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
Startups, scale-ups, SMEs, specialised technology providers and corporate innovation teams with working or deployable Industrial AI technologies.
Can international companies apply?
Yes. The Global Open Call is open to eligible companies from the UAE and internationally.
Can I apply with an idea-stage concept?
The programme is designed for companies with a working product, tested prototype or deployable technology.
When do applications open?
Applications open on 6 October 2026.
When do applications close?
Applications close on 24 May 2027.
What is the cash prize?
The total cash prize pool is US$100,000: US$50,000 for first place, US$30,000 for second place and US$20,000 for third place.
Does applying guarantee selection?
No. Applications will undergo an evaluation and selection process.
Does selection guarantee a pilot, funding or commercial contract?
No. Any pilot, funding, procurement or commercial opportunity will be subject to evaluation, due diligence, partner requirements and agreed terms.
Do I need to be based at SPARK to apply?
No. UAE and international companies can apply. Successful companies may explore opportunities to establish a regional presence at SPARK as they grow in the region.
Ready to Bring Your Industrial AI Solution to Sharjah?
Join the Sharjah Advanced Industrial AI Accelerator and explore opportunities to validate, commercialise and grow your technology from Sharjah.
Applications: 6 October 2026 – 24 May 2027US$100,000 Cash Prize Pool