Abu Dhabi: Catalyst, the region's first technology startup accelerator focused on sustainability and clean tech, announced at the World Future Energy Summit three new direct investments and its tenth cohort of startups joining its Accelerator programme. These developments are coupled with strategic partnerships with BEEAH, Hub71, and Flat6Labs, aimed at bolstering the UAE's innovation ecosystem.
According to Emirates News Agency, the direct investments include aed energy, batsand, and Solumar, startups that are addressing critical climate challenges with solutions ranging from optimized energy storage and carbon-free thermal energy to emissions capture and innovative waste management. Additionally, ten companies from the UAE and Egypt have been selected for Catalyst's newly launched accelerator programme, set to begin in Q1/2025 in partnership with Flat6Labs.
Ahmed Baghoum, Chairman of Catalyst and CEO of Masdar City, highlighted the UAE's thriving startup ecosystem and the opportunities it provides for local and global entrepreneurs. He emphasized that the new cohort and partnerships with BEEAH, Hub71, and Flat6Labs underscore Catalyst's commitment to nurturing this ecosystem and developing groundbreaking climate tech solutions.
Catalyst's partnership with BEEAH focuses on identifying high-potential startups and pilot projects, developing mentorship and funding programmes, and exchanging insights across industries such as green mobility and waste management. Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH, expressed excitement about the collaboration's potential to drive startup growth and contribute to the UAE's entrepreneurial evolution.
Further reinforcing its commitment to the startup ecosystem, Catalyst has signed an MOU with Hub71, providing startups access to a broad network of investors, mentors, and corporate partners. This partnership encourages startups to apply to the Hub71+ ClimateTech Program, which supports sustainability startups in driving decarbonization.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, stated that the partnership with Catalyst aligns with their mission to empower entrepreneurs and drive meaningful change through clean technologies. Additionally, Catalyst's agreement with Flat6Labs aims to enhance programme offerings and support services for startups, providing expertise and resources to help them scale their businesses.
Yehia Houry, CPO of Flat6Labs, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Catalyst, emphasizing the programme's potential to equip MENA-based startups with the tools needed to address climate challenges and expand in the UAE market.