Build, test and grow your idea through hands-on workshops, mentorship and industry access, using the latest AI tools.
Apply NowApplications close 11 November 2026. Apply early, applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Nestlé NextGen Founders is a national venture-building program delivered by Sheraa, in strategic partnership with MAJRA and UAE Food Cluster for young people across the UAE to turn early ideas and prototypes into AI-integrated ventures. Through practical training, mentorship and industry engagement, you will build, test and validate your solution and take it closer to market.
Open to young people aged 18–30 based in the UAE.
From any Emirate.
Based in the UAE.
With a startup idea or early prototype.
Apply with an idea or early prototype. Teams are prioritized, although individuals are welcome to apply.
Interactive workshops using the latest AI tools.
For the top 15 teams.
For winning teams and more
Up to five selected participants, subject to Nestlé recruitment requirements and timelines.
For winning teams.
Support with business licensing and legal formalities.
All industries are welcome. AI-integrated solutions are prioritized, with the following areas especially encouraged:
Apply early. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Four in-person Sprint Days to build, test and validate your idea.
The top 15 teams advance to the Acceleration Phase.
Studio Day 1: 26 Nov 2026 | Four online mentorship sessions in Dec | Studio Day 2: 8 Jan 2027.
Tentative. Pitch your venture at Demo Day. Date subject to confirmation.
University students, recent graduates and early-stage entrepreneurs aged 18–30 based in the UAE can apply with a startup idea or early prototype. Teams are prioritized, although individuals are welcome to apply.
No. Ideas that do not yet use AI are welcome, but AI-integrated solutions are prioritized in the selection.
Yes. Individuals are welcome to apply, although teams are prioritized.
No. The program is free and does not take equity.
Sprint Days and Studio Days are delivered in person as 4-hour workshops. The four mentorship sessions in December are delivered online.
English is primarily used for program delivery.
The final venue will be confirmed and communicated before the program begins.
All industries are welcome. AI-integrated solutions are prioritized, with sustainability, manufacturing, food & beverage, supply chain & logistics, packaging, and health & nutrition especially encouraged.
Click Apply Now and complete the application form. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early.
Applications are reviewed against the selection criteria on a rolling basis. Around 50–60 teams are selected for the Validation Phase, and the top 15 advance to the Acceleration Phase.
Winning teams get access to Sheraa Membership, along with the applicable winner benefits listed above.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Apply Now Applications close 11 November 2026.
