Egypt takes centre stage in the global tech arena as two of its innovative startups clinch prestigious honours at the Underdog Tech Award 2024. The award aims to champion tech entrepreneurs overcoming hurdles such as limited resources, lack of access to funding, and geographical isolation.
Mohamed Tarek Mohamed Abdelzaher, from Egypt, with the P-vita startup, made it among the top three winners. P-vita was placed at the second spot to win $20,000 prize money. In addition to earning accolades for their groundbreaking approach to sustainability, they spearheaded efforts in recycling palm waste to mitigate carbon footprints. Their commitment to environmental stewardship sets a commendable standard for the industry.
Another Egyptian startup, O7 Therapy was awarded a special recognition and $5,000 in prize money. The O7 Therapy was recognised for its impactful initiatives addressing mental health challenges, offering solace and guidance to individuals across Egypt.
The global scope of the Underdog Tech Award is evident in the diverse range of winners, representing countries from across the world. Among the other deserving recipients are:
1st Place ($30,000 Prize): Elmira Safarova from Chile with Rarus Health startup
Rarus Health shines as a beacon of hope, recognized for their unwavering dedication to assisting families grappling with rare genetic diseases. Their innovative solutions promise to revolutionize healthcare accessibility and empower communities.
3rd Place ($10,000 Prize): Saúl Paniagua-Lapenta from Bolivia with VAKA startup
VAKA earns distinction for its pioneering platform, which bridges the gap between farmers and micro-investors, fostering economic empowerment and agricultural sustainability in Bolivia and beyond.
Victor Juarez for Tu Consejeria from Guatemala also gained special recognition and a $5,000 prize for their invaluable contribution to mental health support, providing essential services to communities in need.
Ekaterina Smirnova, Project Head of the Underdog Tech Award, emphasized the significance of such initiatives for startups operating outside major tech hubs. She stated, “The Underdog Tech Award serves as a beacon of encouragement and validation for innovators navigating uncharted territories. By spotlighting their achievements, we hope to inspire a new wave of entrepreneurship and foster a more inclusive tech ecosystem.”
The Underdog Tech Award reaffirms its commitment to nurturing talent, providing winners with not only financial support but also access to industry expertise and PR assistance. These initiatives aim to catalyze growth and empower underrepresented voices in the global tech landscape.
