Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK) has launched a new accelerator program aimed at supporting designers, artists and art studios as they develop, showcase and scale product-led projects.
Announced on January 8, the Base 39 Creative Accelerator is hosted at Base 39, SPARK’s newly launched creative hub. The center is designed as a collaborative platform that integrates design, testing, construction and business development, allowing innovators to move from the latest ideas to commercial-ready products within a single ecosystem.
The accelerator will open with a public call for applications, where 20 designers or studios will be selected to join the first batch. Participants will follow a structured program including teaching, workshops and hands-on development, culminating in the Final Day of the Exhibition where projects will be presented in front of a jury of industry experts and potential commercial partners.
The first group will focus on furniture and collectibles, supporting creators in developing commercially viable products while maintaining a strong design identity and expertise. Participants will receive tailored mentoring from designers, industry experts and creative leaders, as well as practical support in product development, prototyping and production readiness.
Additional features of the program include guidance on pricing, branding, positioning and storytelling, and access to prototyping and manufacturing services. Participants will also gain exposure to buyers, collectors and potential partners within SPARK’s extensive innovation network. The top three graduates of the accelerator will receive cash prizes, while all participants will benefit from in-kind prototyping support, creative incentives and official recognition.
A new platform for innovation
The Base 39 Creative Accelerator builds on SPARK’s experience in delivering sector-focused programs, including the Sharjah Advanced Industries Accelerator, which supports innovation in manufacturing and advanced technologies.
Khalid Hassan Albanna, Director of Base 39, said this initiative represents an important step in bringing together the arts and business and manufacturing in Sharjah. “The launch of the Base 39 Accelerator represents a new milestone in SPARK’s vision to expand Sharjah’s innovative ecosystem by bringing together innovation and design with entrepreneurship and manufacturing,” he said.
Albana added that Base 39 is designed as a comprehensive platform that brings together talent, technology and partnerships, supporting the emirate’s desire to build a sustainable, knowledge-based economy.
The launch is in line with Sharjah’s long-standing role as a regional center for culture, education and innovation.
With SPARK and Base 39, the emirate is expanding its new ecosystem to include creative industries and research, advanced technology and entrepreneurship, strengthening Sharjah’s position as a destination for design-led, product-based businesses.
