Agritech ideas keep sprouting in UAE

Agritech ideas keep sprouting in UAE

The UAE's agenda to build on its food security is evident as it adopts a combination of policy development along with disruption in the agriculture sector, with 2020 witnessing many such initiatives, paving the way for local and foreign startups to introduce solutions to boost local agricultural produce in the desert.Recently, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (Adio) expanded its AgTech incentive programme to include support for innovative companies in other high-growth areas. The new Innovation Programme has an increased incentive pool totalling Dh2 billion ($545 million) to accelerate opportunities for investors in the emirate. The programme reinforces Abu Dhabi's efforts to invest in high-growth areas while supporting businesses and ideas that drive positive impact.Dr Tariq bin Hendi, director-general of Adio, said: “2020 has been a year of major progress in building the emirate's innovation ecosystem and supporting many enterprising companies looking to grow in Abu Dhabi and across the region. As we look ahead to 2021, Adio is doubling down on our commitment to support investors in Abu Dhabi. We are excited to replicate the success of agtech in other high-growth areas rooted in innovation.”Like Adio, even the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), which is supported by the UAE