RHU Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering Department hosted Mr. Elias Chinaihi and Ms. Hania El Shahal from Berytech for a seminar on “Agrytech Accelerator Program” on Tuesday, February 28 at the MEA Conference hall on RHU campus. The seminar encouraged students to participate in the program and contribute to innovating Lebanon’s Agri-Food sector.
Mr. Chinaihi introduced Agrytech as a program funded by Berytech and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Netherlands. It aims to provide technical and business support for startups targeting the development of the Agri-Food industry.
In her presentation, Miss Chahhal focused on the three phases of the Agrytech Accelerator Program. Phase 1 is a two month period during which 30 startups will be selected to produce minimum workable prototypes and each group will be funded by USD 3,300. Phase 2 spreads over 4 months where 15 startups will enter an acceleration program to validate concept where development and technical support by mentors and expertise in the field is provided. Each startup group will be funded by USD 16,000 at this phase. Phase 3 is an incubation program that extends over 6 months where the 8 finalists are put in contact with potential investors and each group will be funded by USD 22,000. These 8 finalists will get the chance to spend 2 months in the Kingdom of Netherlands where they can meet with experts and further test and improve their products.