Microsoft is launching a GrowthX Accelerator for B2B technology startups that address sustainability in the Middle East. The latest effort, known as GrowthX cohort 4, is an eight-week, equity-free accelerator program that aligns with the COP28 climate conference -- which is set for December 2023.
The latest GrowthX Accelerator, built with support from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, is seeking applications from startups that address such areas as:
- Finance, Trade, Gender Equality and Accountability
- Energy, Industry, and Just Transition
- Nature, Land Use, and Oceans
- Food, Agriculture and Water
Startups accepted into the accelerator will gain, according to Microsoft:
- Virtual capacity building workshops and training covering Business, Abu Dhabi, Sustainability and Tech
- A curated mentor panel dedicated specifically to each startup
- 1:1 technical support and guidance from Microsoft specialists
- In-person Demo Day and opportunities at COP28 in the UAE
- Access to investors and corporate partners
- $150,000+ in credits and benefits on Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub
Deadline applications is September 14. The actual GrowthX Accelerator program runs October 2 through November 4. A Demo Day is scheduled for the first week of COP28 in December.
Business Accelerators for Sustainability, Green IT and Clean Energy Startups
Multiple business and technology giants have launched sustainability-focused accelerators in recent days. Additional examples include:
- Apple's third Impact Accelerator class. The 12-company cohort includes Black-, Hispanic/Latinx-, and Indigenous-owned environmental solution and service providers focused on green technology and clean energy.
- Toyota Open Labs, an organization that will seek to nurture sustainability startups across five market segments -- energy, circular economy, carbon neutrality, smart communities and mobility for all.
Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund, Net-Zero Carbon Emissions Goals
Meanwhile, Microsoft also runs a Climate Innovation Fund that's designed to invest in various sustainability startups. Key sustainability products and services within Microsoft's own product portfolio include:
Moreover, the company is seeking a patent for its sustainability platform, and Microsoft expects to be carbon negative by 2030.
