UAE launches global competition for sustainability-tech startups

The UAE is providing tech startups from around the world the opportunity to pitch their technologies and connect with investors in the run up to COP28.

The initiative is part of the 'Make it in the Emirates' competition launched by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology.

Only 24 startups will be selected. They will be offered a platform to learn from some of the brightest minds in the industry and the opportunity to deploy their technologies in the UAE.

Startups from various sectors with a focus on sustainability, decarbonisation and digitalisation, can apply for the competition, which will take place at the 'Make it in the Emirates Forum' from May 31 to June 1.

Online submissions are open until May 5.

The 24 start-ups will be selected based on the innovation they have demonstrated, their disruptive potential, scalability and sustainability, as well as their marketing potential, competitive advantage, and positive social impact.

The judging panel will include representatives from Aspire, EDGE Group, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Technology Innovation Institute, Dubai Industrial City, UAE University and Strata.

The competition is one of several initiatives launched under the 'Make it in the Emirates' umbrella, which aims to attract investors, industrialists and innovators to the UAE to benefit from the country’s competitive advantages.