Two Lebanese Startups Shortlisted For The PepsiCo 2023 Greenhouse Accelerator Program

Returning with a renewed commitment to sustainability and local innovation, this year’s edition of the PepsiCo 2023 Greenhouse Accelerator Program: MENA Sustainability Edition proudly includes two Lebanese startups on their impressive final shortlist.

Chosen from over 180 applicants spanning 18 countries, six startups were shortlisted: Dooda Solutions (Lebanon), NoorNation (Egypt), RoboCare (Tunisia), SmartWTI (Jordan), Smart Green (Jordan), and YY ReGen (Lebanon). Each of these startups is dedicated to implementing sustainable solutions in their home countries and disrupting some of the prevalent modes of operation within the sector, which will in turn be supporting the sustainable agriculture space, which is the theme of this year’s Greenhouse Accelerator.

Speaking on this exciting program, PepsiCo’s Middle East and North Africa’s Sustainability Lead, Yasmin Fansa, shared the following: “Sustainable agriculture takes on special meaning in Lebanon, with its vast arable land, moderate climate, and freshwater resources. It presents a unique opportunity to develop the local economy, create employment opportunities and make the country more self-sufficient in a period of significant economic and political flux. As one of the largest F&B companies in the region – we want to use our scale and influence to lead by example and reinforce food security in MENA, specifically in Lebanon.”

“We also think great solutions can be built and launched through collaborative efforts and working together. Entrepreneurs often have disruptive solutions to solve complex challenges, but lack the capital, resources, or networks to put their plans into action. Connecting multinational actors with disruptive players can empower stakeholders across the value chain to create the kind of systems and positive incentives that drive real change, and we believe the Greenhouse Accelerator model is a great direct way for us to engage with founders, who are pushing a sustainability agenda with progressive perspectives and ideas.”

From Lebanon, Dooda Solutions and YY ReGen were selected for their “innovative solutions through the promotion of renewable energy, sustainable water management, and regenerative farming.” With an initial grant of $20,000, these startups aim to “disrupt the sustainable agriculture industry and create a positive, lasting impact on society.”

Meet the short-listed Lebanese startups

Dooda Solutions is a woman-led earthworm farm from Lebanon that specializes in raising worms and producing premium-grade vermicompost, an organic matter that is widely used as a a bio fertilizer in farming as well as in sewage treatment plants.

The second short-listed startup, YY ReGen provides innovative solutions through the promotion of renewable energy, sustainable water management, and regenerative farming using less pollutive methods.

In addition to the initial grant of $20,000, the selected startups will receive guided mentorship from regional professionals, as well as PepsiCo and Food Tech Valley experts. The conclusion of the program will see one company being awarded $100,000 to “continue its expansion and have an opportunity to extend its collaboration with PepsiCo to further expedite its growth.”

Speaking on what they would like to see for Lebanon’s future, this is what they had to say:

YY ReGen: “Our vision for the future of Lebanon is a thriving and sustainable economic powerhouse, making full use of our abundant natural blessings in sunlight, water, climate, flora, fauna, and the incredible resilience of our women and men.

“Our ReGen-R8 platform will provide power to the powerless, re-energizing the agriculture sector with our on-demand solar energy rental model, boosting productivity, reducing costs, and fostering sustainable economic growth.”

Dooda Solutions: “Our vision for the future of Lebanon is to foster a thriving and sustainable nation, with a strong emphasis on agricultural development. We envision an agricultural sector that is modern, innovative, and environmentally conscious. DOODA vermicompost enhances soil fertility, improves water retention, and increases crop resilience. By minimizing chemical use, we promote sustainable practices, reduce pollution, and safeguard resources. We also create employment opportunities, improve farmers’ livelihoods, and foster economic growth. Through collaboration and partnerships, we aspire to build an ecosystem that supports economic growth, enhances food security, and improves the overall well-being of our communities.”

We wish all the start-ups the best of luck, and hope the Lebanese start-ups can make the country proud and help build a more sustainable future for Lebanon through this program.

To keep up with this exciting program, you can check the Accelerator’s website and follow their LinkedIn Page. To keep up with the Lebanese start-ups, be sure to follow YY ReGen and Dooda Solutions on their respective Instagram accounts.