UAE FoodTech Challenge 2026 Winners Contribute to Food Security and Agri-Tech Innovations

The Winners of UAE FoodTech Challenge 2026 Join National Agri-Tech Ecosystem

The UAE FoodTech Challenge, a global competition identifying promising agri-tech innovations, concluded its third edition with the announcement of four remarkable startups as winners during Abu Dhabi's Sustainability Week. This year's winners were selected from an impressive pool of 1,215 applicants across 113 countries. The event highlighted the increasing importance of sustainable solutions in tackling the global food crisis and enhancing food security in arid regions.

Recognizing the Winning Startups

The four outstanding startups that received a collective prize of $2 million are:
1. HyveGeo
2. Permia Sensing
3. Flybox
4. Akorn Technology

These companies are not only dedicated to creating technology that improves agricultural practices in the UAE but also aim to extend their solutions to various markets in the Global South, addressing local challenges in food production and waste management.

Innovations Addressing Key Challenges

Permia Sensing uses artificial intelligence and bioacoustic sensors to monitor tree health, covering over 15,000 hectares in Sri Lanka. This cutting-edge technology enables early detection of stress factors like dehydration and pest infestations, assisting farmers in optimizing yields while minimizing waste. They are now setting their sights on adapting their solution for the UAE and broader Middle Eastern markets.

HyveGeo has developed a method to transform agricultural waste into biochar, enhancing soil quality and sustainability. Their work aids farmers in converting arid, desert-like soils into fertile land. As a winner of the challenge, they plan to expand research and pilot projects targeting markets in the Global South.

Akorn Technology focuses on producing a natural, edible coating for fruits and vegetables, aiming to slow down ripening and reduce moisture loss. Already deployed in Egypt and Ghana, their solution intends to cater to the UAE's unique environmental conditions to further extend product lifespan and minimize post-harvest losses.

Flybox tackles waste by utilizing black soldier fly larvae to convert agricultural by-products into high-quality protein and fertilizer. Their off-grid, cost-effective solution has seen success in Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria, and will now be launched in the UAE in collaboration with local waste management partners for widespread deployment.

A Platform for Innovation

The UAE FoodTech Challenge plays a pivotal role in establishing resilient and secure food systems, aligning with the UAE's long-term vision for a sustainable future. The challenge not only provides financial support but also connects the startups with a robust network of partners and resources for mentorship, research access, and market integration.

Rima Al Mokarrab, President of Tamkeen and Co-Chair of the FoodTech Challenge, emphasized the importance of fostering a strong agri-tech ecosystem in the UAE. She noted that previous winners of the challenge have raised over $48 million in additional funding and launched more than 50 pilot projects, making a considerable impact in local and international markets.

As these four startups embark on their journey within the UAE, they will enjoy tailored support to refine and expand their solutions. This includes opportunities for pilot projects, access to research facilities, mentorship, and presentations to potential investors.

Future Prospects

Fatema Almulla, a Senior Specialist for Development at the UAE Presidential Court, highlighted the UAE's leading role in global development, focusing on innovative agriculture as a crucial element of the UAE's international commitment. The FoodTech Challenge serves as a unique platform bringing together advanced technology, political leadership, and global expertise to accelerate the rollout of pilot solutions aimed at combatting the impacts of climate change.

As the challenge looks towards future editions, it continues to seek innovations that can drive food production while minimizing waste, in alignment with the UAE's steadfast goals of ensuring food security not just locally but globally.

For additional details about the UAE FoodTech Challenge and the successes of the winners, visit www.foodtechchallenge.com.