France-based Veolia has launched an acceleration and mentoring programme, aimed at supporting social startups and SMEs across the Middle East focusing on issues such as sustainability and climate change.

The programme will allow startups to put forward and pitch their prototypes that tackle challenges relating to strengthening the economic balance of the recycling business, developing a recycling culture in the Middle East and re-inventing and disrupting the waste collection business.

Selected startups will receive mentorship from Veolia and access the company’s network of experts, laboratories and tools to test and benchmark their solutions. A monthly allowance of $1,000 will also be provided to each successful startup during the acceleration stage.

Selected startups will be invited to pitch to the Veolia management team in December, the winning teams will then qualify for the cooperation phase in early 2021.

“We are extremely excited to launch this momentous accelerator programme and we look forward to watching the initiative unfold. All Gulf countries have set up ambitious targets to divert waste from landfill and develop recycling schemes. Today, only 10 per cent of the generated waste is effectively recycled,” said Sébastien Chauvin, CEO of Veolia Middle East. “Through this programme, we aim to pave the way toward a more circular economy and inspire and support the bright new minds within the industry who are trying to promote a sustainable lifestyle. There is a huge need to look at alternate ways to make a difference and boost our endeavors for ecological transformation.

“The Middle East is taking great strides towards fast-tracking sustainable initiatives and we are proud to be able to support these strategic goals and help build a green-economy,” he added.