Egypt-based Athar Accelerator has proudly announced the graduation of its fifth cohort from the Climate Action Accelerator Programme, showcasing a vibrant array of innovative startups dedicated to tackling pressing environmental challenges.
This year’s demo day which held in Minya, Upper Egypt, featured ten groundbreaking startups, each presenting their solutions across vital sectors such as renewable energy, eco-friendly agriculture, and sustainable products.
Among the standout participants was DFC, a pioneering startup focused on developing solar-powered mobile charging stations for electric vehicles. DFC’s innovative approach earned them a prize of EGP150,000 (approximately US$3,000), recognizing their significant potential in revolutionizing clean energy solutions in Egypt. Other notable contenders included Fertical, which harnesses beneficial microbes to create eco-friendly biopesticides and biofertilizers, and Vermi Valley, a startup converting agricultural waste into nutrient-rich compost, thereby enhancing soil health.
The Climate Action Accelerator Programme, funded by the Embassy of Finland in Cairo and Hivos, operates in partnership with Creativa Innovation Hubs in Upper Egypt. Its mission is to empower entrepreneurs in underserved regions by fostering sustainable business practices. The event not only highlighted the achievements of the startups but also featured the launch of the Green Manifesto—a declaration aimed at supporting overlooked founders in green sectors. This manifesto emphasizes the importance of empowering local entrepreneurs, recognizing the diverse needs of startups, and fostering sustainable community growth.
“These founders are not only creating solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges but are also laying the groundwork for sustainable economic development in Egypt and the wider region. Their success is a testament to the growing importance of climate action in the startup ecosystem,” said Shoaib Elqady, CEO of Athar Accelerator.
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Furthermore, as the accelerator continues to nurture these emerging businesses, Elqady emphasized the need for new funding models to cater to the unique challenges faced by different startups. “Not all startups fit into the traditional venture capital model. We must innovate our funding strategies to ensure all entrepreneurs can succeed,” he added.
Athar Accelerator’s ongoing commitment to supporting green entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in addressing climate change while stimulating economic growth across Egypt and the MENA region. By nurturing these startups, Athar is helping to create a more sustainable future, proving that innovation can flourish even in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the graduation of the fifth cohort marks a significant milestone for Athar Accelerator and its dedication to empowering green entrepreneurs. Through continued support and innovative solutions, these startups are set to make a lasting impact on Egypt’s environmental landscape and contribute to global sustainability efforts.
