Fekretak Sherketak, under the Egyptian Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, invites Egyptian startups to join the UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026. This prestigious international initiative seeks scalable, innovative solutions that drive the sustainable development of the world’s oceans and inland water systems.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Global Innovation Call & Accelerator Program
- For: Startups, MSMEs, and Researchers in the Blue Economy sector
- Key Benefits: Acceleration program, international mentorship, and up to $3,000 travel reimbursement
- Application Deadline: June 19, 2026
- Location: Global (Award ceremony in Rome, Italy)
Competition Overview
The UNIDO-WTCA Blue Economy Global Call 2026 is a joint initiative by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA). The program aims to identify and scale high-impact technologies that balance economic growth with the health of marine and freshwater ecosystems. One winner will be selected for each of the six strategic categories to enter a dedicated one-year acceleration program, benefiting from UNIDO’s technical expertise and WTCA’s global business network.
Key Benefits
- Acceleration Program: Winners enter a one-year UNIDO-WTCA umbrella acceleration program.
- Global Mentorship: High-level strategic guidance and mentoring to scale solutions.
- Market Access: Matchmaking with international clients and potential pilot opportunities in partner countries.
- Travel Support: Winners receive up to $3,000 to cover travel and lodging for the award ceremony in Rome.
- International Showcase: Opportunity to present at the Euro-Mediterranean Water Forum (Sept 29 – Oct 2, 2026).
- Investor Access: Shortlisted applicants will be promoted to venture capital funds, banks, and development institutions.
Eligibility Criteria
- Target Groups: Startups, MSMEs, academic centers, NGOs, and Public-Private Partnerships.
- Thematic Focus: Projects must fall under Renewable Energy, Sustainable Food, Maritime Transport, Tourism, Ecosystem Health, or Biotechnology.
- Technical Maturity: Solutions must have a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or higher (beyond basic conceptual stage).
- Language: All applications must be submitted in English.
- Demographics: The call prioritizes youth-led and women-led initiatives.
Strategic Categories
- Blue Renewable Energy: Marine-based power solutions.
- Sustainable Blue Food: Innovation in fisheries and aquaculture.
- Green Maritime Transport: Sustainable shipping and smart ports.
- Coastal & Marine Tourism: Eco-friendly recreation and tourism.
- Water Health & Restoration: Protecting sea, lake, and river ecosystems.
- Blue Tech & Biotechnology: Advanced marine-based technical solutions.
How to Apply
Eligible innovators should submit their applications through the official portal before the deadline. Ensure your project description uses neutral, factual language and clearly identifies your primary category.
Deadline: June 19, 2026 Apply here: Official UNIDO Global Call Form
About Fekretak Sherketak
Fekretak Sherketak is the Central Entrepreneurship Department under Egypt’s Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade. It serves as a primary hub for supporting Egyptian startups by providing the necessary resources, regulatory guidance, and connections to international opportunities to help local entrepreneurs scale globally.
Learn More: UNIDO ITPO Italy
