UAE FoodTech Challenge winners claim a $2 million prize pool in the third edition of this global contest. Four startups earned recognition for their agri-tech solutions aimed at arid climates and food security. Organizers picked them from 1,215 entries across 113 countries during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
Event Focus
The UAE FoodTech Challenge drives innovations in climate-smart agriculture and waste reduction. The UAE Presidential Court’s International Affairs Office runs the event with Tamkeen. Partners include the Gates Foundation, Ne’ma, and Silal. Previous winners secured over $48 million in follow-on funds and started more than 50 pilots.
Tree Health Monitoring
Permia Sensing leads in climate-smart production. The UK firm uses AI, bioacoustic sensors, and drones to spot tree stress and pests early. It already covers 15,000 hectares of palm farms in Sri Lanka. The company plans to expand into the UAE farms next.
Soil Regeneration Tech
HyveGeo also excels in production advances. This UAE startup turns farm waste into biochar enriched with microbes. The product boosts desert soil fertility for better crops. It operates in the UAE now and targets growth across the Global South.
Produce Shelf Life Boost
Akorn Technology shines in waste reduction. The California company coats fresh produce with natural, edible films. These extend shelf life and cut losses after harvest. It works in Egypt and Ghana markets, with UAE trials set to start soon.
Waste-to-Protein Solution
Flybox tackles waste with black soldier fly larvae. Its off-grid container systems turn farm waste into protein feed and fertilizer. The UK startup runs operations in Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria. It launches in the UAE via local waste partnerships.
Scaling Support
Winners receive pilot sites, research labs, mentors, and investor links in the UAE. Rima Al Mokarrab from Tamkeen highlights the push for tough food systems. Fatema Almulla of the Presidential Court points to tech-policy teamwork for worldwide reach. These UAE FoodTech Challenge winners now scale solutions from UAE bases to global farms. Their tools promise less waste and stronger yields in dry lands.
