HyveGeo Wins FoodTech Challenge for Biochar Solution in Desert Agriculture
HyveGeo, an Abu Dhabi-based startup, has been named one of the four winners of the FoodTech Challenge during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The startup was selected from 1,215 submissions across 113 countries for its solution using engineered biochar to convert arid desert soil into fertile farmland.
As a winner, HyveGeo will share a USD 2 million prize and receive ecosystem support to scale its operations. The FoodTech Challenge aims to identify and promote agri-tech solutions to enhance food production and reduce waste in climate-stressed regions.
Founded in 2023, HyveGeo's solution addresses waste conversion, soil regeneration, water efficiency, and carbon removal. Other winners include startups from Asia, Africa, and South America. Previous winners have secured over $48 million in follow-on funding and launched over 50 pilot projects.
