News DeskAbu Dhabi, UAE – The third edition of the UAE FoodTech Challenge concluded at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week with the announcement of four winning startups, highlighting cutting-edge innovations aimed at strengthening food security in arid and climate-stressed regions worldwide.
Selected from an initial pool of 1,215 submissions across 113 countries, the winners were chosen after live pitches by ten finalists to an international panel of experts in food systems, sustainability, investment, and development. The competition focuses on identifying and scaling agri-food technologies that boost production and reduce food loss and waste.
In the Climate-Smart Food Production category, Permia Sensing was recognized for its use of artificial intelligence, bioacoustic sensors, and drone imaging to monitor tree health and detect early signs of stress, dehydration, and pest infestations. Already deployed across more than 15,000 hectares of palm plantations in Sri Lanka, the company plans to localize and expand its solution across the UAE and the wider Middle East.
Also in the same category, HyveGeo was awarded for transforming agricultural waste into microbe-enriched biochar that improves soil fertility. The nature-based, circular solution is already being used across the UAE to convert desert soil into arable land, with plans to expand research and pilot projects across the Global South.
In the Food Loss & Waste Reduction category, Akorn Technology won for its natural, edible coating that extends the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by slowing ripening and reducing moisture loss. Currently in use in Egypt and Ghana, the technology will now be optimized for the UAE’s arid conditions.
The second winner in this category, Flybox, utilizes black soldier fly larvae to convert agricultural byproducts into protein and fertilizer, reducing landfill waste. Operated in off-grid shipping containers, the solution is already active in several African countries and is set to launch in the UAE in partnership with local waste management entities.
The four winning teams will share a USD 2 million prize and receive tailored in-kind support, including pilot opportunities, access to research facilities, mentorship, and investor introductions. From the UAE, they will work to scale their solutions across key markets in the Global South.
Rima Al Mokarrab, Chair of Tamkeen and Co-Chair of the FoodTech Challenge, said the winners join a growing ecosystem of innovators that has already raised over USD 48 million in follow-on funding and launched more than 50 pilot projects globally.
Organized by the International Affairs Office at the UAE Presidential Court and Tamkeen, the challenge is held in partnership with the Gates Foundation, ne’ma (The National Food Loss and Waste Initiative), and Silal. The initiative supports the UAE’s long-term food security strategy while contributing to more resilient and sustainable global food systems.
