KAUST AgriTech startups Natufia and Edama won NASA's Deep Space Food Challenge for their joint solution integrating automated hydroponics, macroalgae farming, and composting. Their closed-loop system efficiently recovers and reuses waste resources to maximize productivity and reduce dependence on external inputs. The system can supply a diverse and nutritious menu of fruits, vegetables, and algae-based dietary supplements for astronauts. Why it matters: This award highlights the growing strength of the Saudi entrepreneurial ecosystem in developing innovative AgriTech solutions with global applications, particularly for sustainable food production.
Edama Organic Solutions, a KAUST startup, has opened a new organic waste recycling facility in the KAUST Research and Technology Park. The facility is the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia to use technology for waste processing and desert agriculture solutions. It will recycle 100% of KAUST's food and green waste, producing about 4,500 m3 of soil improver. Why it matters: This supports Saudi Vision 2030 by addressing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable agriculture in arid regions, aligning with the Saudi Green Initiative.
KAUST is leading a $3.5 million investment in Natufia, an Estonian startup that developed a smart indoor kitchen garden, with $2 million awarded through the KAUST Innovation Fund. Natufia's hydroponic technology allows year-round harvesting of herbs, greens, and vegetables at home, regardless of climate. By taking up residency at the KAUST Research and Technology Park, Natufia aims to expand R&D capabilities and create job opportunities in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This investment addresses the challenge of accessing fresh produce in regions like Saudi Arabia while reducing food waste and promoting sustainable agriculture through innovative technology.
Edama Organic Solutions received $780,000 USD seed investment from the KAUST Innovation Fund. KAUST has also signed a contract to build a commercial-scale composting facility for Edama on its Thuwal campus, with a recycling capacity of 5,500 tons. Edama will manufacture and sell products, including Edama Desert Compost and Edama Palm Peat. Why it matters: This initiative promotes sustainable waste management practices in Saudi Arabia by turning organic waste into valuable soil improvement products tailored for desert environments.
The 2018 TAQADAM Accelerator Showcase, a partnership between KAUST and SABB, awarded SAR 2.25 million in follow-on funding to winning startups. 24 startup graduates from 11 universities in Saudi Arabia participated, each having received SAR 75,000 in initial grant funding. Winning startups included Wayakit, with an instant laundry spray, and EDAMA Organic Solutions, focused on converting organic waste into soil conditioners. Why it matters: This accelerator program highlights the growing focus on deep tech innovation and entrepreneurship within Saudi Arabia's research and business ecosystems.