Eight Arab startups compete for $30,000 prize in Mega Green initiative

PepsiCo, SABIC, and AstroLabs have unveiled the names of the eight startups selected to participate in the Mega Green initiative in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The initiative aims to support young entrepreneurs and develop innovative solutions to address sustainability challenges in the region.

These startups are distinguished by offering innovative solutions in the fields of agriculture, water, and energy, which contributes to driving the circular economy, supporting the transition to clean energy, and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Over the next six months, the selected startups will receive support and guidance from experienced industry experts, as well as the opportunity to work with market players to expand their solutions.

By the end of the program, one company will win a cash prize of $30,000 to enable it to continue to grow and thrive.

The selected startups:

• Viridia Tech-Egypt: Provides a large-scale crop analysis platform to help agricultural companies improve productivity, profitability, and adopt better sustainable practices.
• P-VITA-Egypt: A biotechnology center specialized in producing natural raw materials for the cosmetics, food, and beverage industries. The company uses artificial intelligence and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to automate operations, which reduces the carbon footprint.
• Mrüna-Flexibility-UAE: A consulting and distribution company working on developing innovative civil solutions.
• The Surpluss-UAE: A climate tech startup that helps SMEs reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a profitable way by sharing resources through digital sustainability service exchange.
• Mirai Solar-Saudi Arabia: A startup working in solar energy technologies, specializing in expanding the uses of solar energy beyond traditional applications, aiming to improve energy efficiency in food production operations, smart buildings, and support sustainable future building.
• AHYA TECHNOLOGIES-Saudi Arabia: A climate software and AI startup working on building a unified platform to scale up climate action in the MENA and Pakistan region.
• YY ReGen-Lebanon: Specializes in providing innovative solutions to support renewable energy use, sustainable water management, and support for renewable agricultural practices.
• Kumulus-Tunisia: A startup working in water technology, using innovative machines to generate water in the atmosphere, helping to convert air into fresh water. The company aims to contribute to providing drinking water in a sustainable, convenient, and cost-effective way for hotels and businesses across the MENA and Southern Europe regions.

The importance of the Mega Green initiative:

• Supporting young entrepreneurs and developing innovative solutions to address sustainability challenges in the region.
• Providing a platform for startups to showcase their solutions and connect with market players.
• Helping startups grow and thrive through funding and mentorship.

The Mega Green initiative is a significant example of the commitment of large companies to supporting sustainability in the region. By supporting young entrepreneurs, we can ensure a more sustainable future for generations to come.