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The DMCC x AGCC: Global AI Challenge *Sustainability Edition, organized by AGCC in partnership with DMCC, is the largest AI-focused startup competition at Expand North Star 2024. This challenge seeks to discover and showcase AI-driven innovations with a positive impact on the GCC region. We are looking for groundbreaking AI solutions that can contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and create measurable, positive change.
The DMCC x AGCC: Global AI Challenge *Sustainability Edition invites startups, research teams, and developers to present their most advanced AI solutions, demonstrating the potential to create positive change and scalability in the region.
Eligibility to enter the competition is required. The organizers will contact you if your application meets the criteria.
Solutions must clearly apply AI or machine learning technologies.
The companies should align with at least one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Companies must be generating revenue, indicating a proven business model beyond initial development.
At least one team member must have a strong technical background in AI or machine learning.
Solutions should demonstrate potential for impact within the region.
Applicants must disclose any previous major awards or recognitions.
All participants must be at least 18 years old.
Online review of submitted applications.
Selection of semi-finalists based on initial evaluations.
Virtual presentations to a subset of judges.
Detailed Q&A sessions.
In-person presentations at Expand North Star 2024.
Finalists will present on stage, followed by a Q&A with the judging panel.
Award ceremony on stage following the Q&A.
Alessio Garofalo brings to the table over 20 years of experience in defense, logistics, and tech innovation. With a background that includes serving as a NATO officer and leading technology initiatives at Amazon, Garofalo is now at the forefront of developing AI and automation solutions aimed at transforming supply chain and manufacturing in the region. His deep expertise in AI and its large-scale applications positions him as a highly valuable judge for the competition.
AI Expert, CIO/CTO
Oxagon, NEOM
Luca Barbi is a seasoned investor with deep experience in venture capital and private equity. As General Partner at STV, the largest venture capital fund in the Middle East, Barbi has been key to identifying and scaling high-growth startups across diverse sectors, particularly in AI and technology. His sharp investment skills and strategic insights will play a crucial role in assessing the commercial potential and scalability of the AI solutions presented in the competition.
Investor and General Partner
STV
Belal Jassoma is integral to DMCC’s mission of fostering innovative ecosystems that drive the growth of tech enterprises. With a strong background in business development and ecosystem management, Jassoma is focused on integrating cutting-edge AI solutions into the UAE’s business landscape. His expertise in building ecosystems and forming strategic partnerships offers a vital perspective on how AI solutions can be practically applied and scaled within the region.
Director of Ecosystems
DMCC
Chiara de Caro, co-founder and managing partner of AGCC, has over 15 years of experience building and scaling tech companies across continents. She has successfully exited two startups and worked closely with top investors in Europe, the Middle East, and the U.S. Her global experience and strategic insight make her a key judge, particularly in evaluating the growth potential and market alignment of AI solutions on both a regional and international scale.
Co-Founder and Managing Partner
AGCC
R/GA is a global creative agency best known for combining expertise in design, technology and culture. We help deliver innovation with impact across a full spectrum of brand and marketing needs for clients throughout the GCC, Europe and the US. From creating the first digital bank for the next generation with the National Bank of Kuwait to designing comms & experiences for Nike, we push the boundaries of creativity, transforming both our clients’ businesses and entire industries.
The Marketing Society is a leading global membership community, founded in 1959 as a not-for-profit organisation. Since then, we have grown to become a highly influential community of marketing leaders around the world, with hubs in England (HQ), Scotland, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Arab Emirates and New York. We inspire, accelerate and unite the world’s smartest marketers, helping them to do well in their careers, and to do good in their organisations, the economy and society. We work together to grow marketing’s positive impact