Egypt’s Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), has announced the launch of the Climate Adaptation Innovation Accelerator Programme (CAIAP).
This initiative aims to support start-ups, entrepreneurs, companies, and NGOs in Egypt, Jordan, and Lebanon that are developing solutions to enhance food security and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.
The programme is an extension of Egypt’s ClimaTech Run, a global competition designed to empower innovators addressing critical climate and food security issues. Supported by the UN Adaptation Fund, CAIAP is part of the broader Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator (AFCIA) partnership with the WFP Innovation Accelerator based in Munich.
Selected participants will receive mentorship, hands-on support, and access to WFP operations, alongside grants of up to $200 000.
Dr Rania A. Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, emphasized the significance of empowering startups and private sector involvement in driving innovation and economic development.
“In cooperation with WFP, the CAIAP will support and help scale up high-potential climate innovation in Egypt, unlocking the power of local climate action initiatives through multi-stakeholder partnerships,” she said.
Bernhard Kowatsch, Head of WFP Innovation Accelerator, highlighted the critical role of innovation in combating food insecurity and climate change. Jean-Pierre de Margerie, WFP Egypt Representative and Country Director, added that this partnership aligns with the mission to ensure food security through sustainable and locally-driven solutions.
This initiative is part of WFP’s broader strategic plan for 2023-2028 in Egypt, which focuses on enhancing food security through agricultural and rural development, particularly in Upper Egypt.
The programme also reflects Egypt’s commitment to fostering green and tech-driven startups, building on the success of previous ClimaTech Run editions that engaged over 422 startups from 77 countries.
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