And the Open Innovation Challenges Winners are…
The final of the ENRICH in Africa Open Innovation Challenges, managed by EiA partner Agorize, took place during the AU-EU Innovation Festival, an event organised by the European Commission, the African Union, the Republic of South Africa, and the EU Delegation to South Africa on 15th June 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa.
It comprised the finalist pitching session culminating in an award ceremony where our corporate partners-, United.b, Sanofi, EDF, L’oreal and Sothema- announced the winners of their challenges.
Sanofi's Healthcare Access Challenge
WINNER: Zuri Health
Zuri Health is an innovative healthcare provider offering universally accessible solutions through multiple channels, including a mobile app, a web platform, an AI-powered chatbot called Vera and an SMS service.
Its comprehensive approach ensures that healthcare services are available to people who don't have a smartphone, and to people living in rural or underserved areas. Zuri Health bridges the gap in access to healthcare, enabling people from all walks of life to receive the care they need.
Sanofi, one of the world's leading healthcare companies, is driven by a single goal: to achieve scientific breakthroughs that improve the lives of people around the globe. With a dedicated team spread across the globe, Sanofi is working to revolutionize the field of medicine, transforming what was once considered impossible into tangible solutions for patients.
United.b’s Circular Electronics Challenge
WINNER: OneGRID Energies
OneGRID Energies is a pioneering company that has developed a remarkable solution in the form of a $0.7 low-cost lantern. This innovative lantern is crafted from upcycled e-waste lithium-ion batteries and waste plastic bottles. Not only does it provide an affordable lighting option, but it also generates employment opportunities for rural women, people with disabilities, and young people. Replacing traditional sources of lighting such as kerosene lamps and candles, this solution plays a significant role in eliminating pollution and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. OneGRID Energies is making a positive impact on both the environment and the lives of communities in need.
United.b is a dynamic business platform made up of seven interconnected and complementary brands, all united by a common vision. With a focus on reimagining lifestyles, United.b recognizes the potential of technology to address today's challenges and shape innovative solutions. This collective effort aims to make United.b a leading force in circular and cultural practices in Europe. With a passionate team of 15,000 employees driven by a love of innovation and technology, United.b is dedicated to improving everyday life and building a better future for all.
L’Oréal’s Green Sciences for Cosmetics Challenge
WINNER: Skin Creamery & BAOM Collab
Skin Creamery, an established natural cosmetics range, has joined forces with BAOM, a biotech start-up, to revolutionize cosmetics packaging. BAOM's innovative approach involves the use of compostable biofilms, paving the way for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Both companies, founded by South African women, are highly committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This collaboration not only showcases their shared dedication to sustainability, it also highlights their passion for creating positive change in the cosmetics industry.
L'Oréal, a beauty powerhouse with a rich heritage of over 100 years, has been dedicated to the pursuit of beauty. With a diverse and complementary portfolio of 36 international brands, the Group achieved impressive sales of 29.87 billion euros in 2019 and employs 88,000 people worldwide. As the global leader in the beauty industry, L'Oréal has a strong presence across various distribution channels including mass market, department stores, pharmacies, drugstores, hair salons, travel retail, branded retail, and e-commerce.
EDF’s Green Transition Challenge
WINNER: PYLON
Pylon is a transformative force in the energy management sector, particularly in emerging markets. Their smart metering software is revolutionizing the way energy is managed. With a vast network of over 1 million metering points, Pylon enhances grid efficiency, ensuring optimal energy distribution. Furthermore, their innovative solutions contribute to sustainability by promoting greener practices. Pylon stands out with its unique business models and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, paving the way for a smarter, more environmentally conscious future in the energy industry.
As a key player in energy transition, EDF Group is an integrated energy company active in all businesses: generation, transmission, distribution, energy supply and services, optimisation, and trading. World leader in low-carbon energy, EDF has developed a diversified generation mix based mainly on nuclear power and renewable energies. With an installed net generation capacity of 117.3 GWe in 2021, of which nearly 60% is nuclear, it has generated 523.7 TWh, 91% being carbon-free electricity. EDF is involved in supplying energy and services to 38.5 million customers and is investing in new technologies to support energy transition.
Sothema & UM6P’s MedTech Challenge
WINNER: IR catheter manufacturing
The IR catheter manufacturing Project aims to set up a national production facility for interventional radiology catheters. This initiative emphasizes the benefits of local manufacturing, such as reduced costs and improved accessibility to vital medical devices. By setting up the facility in Morocco, it is intended to improve the availability and affordability of interventional radiology catheters, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare providers in the region.
SOTHEMA has a profound mission: to provide convenient access to vital treatments for the populations of Morocco and Sub-Saharan Africa. Recognizing that accessible healthcare is a cornerstone of sustainable development, SOTHEMA has prioritized the establishment of local production units in Morocco, ensuring the nation's self-sufficiency in medicine manufacturing.
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is a forward-looking institution dedicated to applied research and innovation, with a particular focus on Africa. The university is actively committed to economic and human development, placing research and innovation at the forefront of African progress. Thanks to its unique partnership approach and emphasis on skills training, UM6P plays an essential role in consolidating Morocco's leading position in these fields, while contributing to Africa's future