Two African startups, BleagLee and LiquidGold in addition to Ryp Labs, Earthly, Koltiva have been announced as winners of the ClimaTech Run 2022 during the COP27 Conference in Sharm, El Sheikh, Egypt. ClimaTech Run, a global multi-stage program included as part of the preparations for the United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference (COP27) was this year organised by Egypt’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the Ministry of International Cooperation, and the Ministry of Environment in partnership with Afreximbank and other international and local organisations.
The 2022 competition attracted an applicant pool of 422 start-ups from 77 countries. The competition was whittled down to 15 finalists targeting tech entrepreneurs and digital artists, sharing a collective passion for sustainability and a better future for all, while connecting science and creativity through technology. The eventual winners collected cash prizes as follows: Ryp Labs, Earthly, and Koltiva received $100,000, $50,000, and $25,000 respectively while BleagLee and LiquidGold, received $50,000 and $25,000, respectively. In addition to cash awards, the winners will participate in an acceleration program that offers networking and mentorship opportunities with prominent business leaders. Presenting the overall winner award to Ryp Labs, President Oramah commented:
“Innovation drives the world. The ClimaTech winners represent the size of talent out there across the world. The world needs them. Your innovation can help save millions today and safeguard the futures of generations. As I present this award to you, I pledge Afreximbank’s full support and cooperation for funding for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship which will steer you and others to the next stage of invention. We hope that with this recognition, you will be able to expand your reach, your knowledge, and your passion to create for the sake of your communities and our world. Congratulations.” ClimaTech Run was created to connect a global ecosystem that fuels inspiration for climate action and encourage young people worldwide to address the most pressing climate changes.