Masdar City Innovate Returns with Powerful Clean-Tech Showcase 2023
Masdar City Innovate is returning once again to Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2023, bringing together global clean-tech start-ups and innovators. The initiative continues its mission to support emerging technologies that accelerate the transition to a more sustainable future.
Masdar City Innovate Empowering Start-Ups in Clean Technology
The three-day exhibition begins on January 16 and is supported by The Catalyst, Masdar City’s advanced start-up accelerator program. This year, 22 promising companies will pitch their solutions directly to an investment committee—competing for up to $200,000 in funding that can fast-track their growth and real-world impact.
Since launching in 2021, Masdar City Innovate has helped dozens of emerging companies establish strategic partnerships and begin transformative projects in the region. Acting CEO Ahmed Baghoum highlighted how the program inspires innovators dedicated to fighting climate change, while offering a platform designed to accelerate their progress.
According to Steve Severance, Masdar City’s director of growth, combining Innovate with The Catalyst creates an efficient pathway for entrepreneurs seeking expert guidance and investment. Successful participants not only gain financial support but also access to the Masdar City Free Zone and Abu Dhabi’s rapidly expanding technology ecosystem.
Success Stories Emerging from Masdar City Innovate
The first edition of the program supported 20 forward-thinking companies, several of which returned this year. One notable example is FortyGuard, an energy optimization start-up launched in 2020. After joining Innovate 2022, FortyGuard secured Masdar City as its first major client, eventually expanding to serve 12 significant regional customers.
Founder Jay Sadiq described Masdar City Innovate as a gateway to high-level decision-makers and strategic partners, noting that the platform enabled direct access to clients without the need for extensive outreach.
- Clean-tech exposure to regional decision-makers
- High-value partnerships through Masdar City Innovate
- Funding opportunities via The Catalyst accelerator
Innovative Clean-Tech Showcases in 2023
This year’s edition includes an agri-tech highlight presented by DANA Venture Builder, supporting women-led startups specializing in desert technologies, water solutions, food security, renewable energy, waste management, and more.
Another standout feature is HydroArtPod, a smart indoor garden that doubles as art. Founded by Aline Pate, this automated home garden allows families to grow fresh produce year-round, reducing their reliance on supermarkets while encouraging sustainable living.
Beyond the main exhibition, the event will also host panel discussions covering women in sustainability, circular economy innovations, and the future of climate-positive tech ecosystems.
Collaborative Partnerships Driving Innovation
Masdar City Innovate 2023 is organized in partnership with Amazon Web Services, Microsoft for Startups, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, the Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF), and DANA Venture Builder. Together, these entities present a dynamic portfolio of clean-tech companies focused on artificial intelligence, clean energy, food security, and sustainable innovation.
For more insights on global renewable energy developments, explore trusted resources such as the International Renewable Energy Agency. To dive deeper into local sustainability projects, also explore our article on Masdar City sustainability initiatives.
Conclusion: Masdar City Innovate Catalyzes Regional Clean-Tech Growth
The 2023 edition of Masdar City Innovate reinforces the UAE’s position as a leader in sustainable innovation. Through funding opportunities, strategic partnerships, and global collaboration, Innovate continues empowering disruptive technologies that contribute to a cleaner, more resilient future.