Latest news with #Start-upWeekend
Observer
17-07-2025
- Business
- Observer
Students make toiletries, plastic alternatives out of 'menace' mesquite
IBRI: The student-led company "Greenova" from the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Ibri has achieved a breakthrough by extracting alternatives to plastic and advanced health products from the mesquite tree (Prosopis juliflora). This pioneering step merges green economy principles with biotechnology, embodying Omani innovation and sustainable entrepreneurship. The company has emerged as a leader in transforming what was long considered a "harmful plant" into a hub of environmental and industrial innovation. Badr bin Said al Azizi, CEO of Greenova, stated: "With over two years of experience in innovation and entrepreneurship, the company has established a national and global reputation by developing a mesquite-based alternative to plastic. This material is stronger, cheaper, shatterproof and more heat-resistant." He noted that the material's high efficiency has been validated by a credible report from the Plant Therapy Research Laboratory in China, supervised by leading scientists, reinforcing the innovation's credibility and the product's robustness. He said: "By extracting compounds from mesquite leaves, the company has produced 100 per cent natural hair wash, body wash and soap derived from a local tree. This Omani-made product meets global standards, competes in international markets and offers a safe, healthy alternative to existing options." The CEO emphasised that Greenova has achieved remarkable milestones in a short time. Sales of its plastic alternative raw material have captured 40 per cent of the Omani market in a single transaction, with a net daily profit of 35 per cent, reflecting the project's economic viability and environmental sustainability. This success followed extensive efforts, including a strategic agreement with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources in Al Dhahirah Governorate to utilise mesquite tree waste — which previously required millions of riyals in annual public tenders for disposal. Thus, an environmental burden has been turned into an economic opportunity, positioning Greenova as a model for circular economy practices. Elyas bin Abdullah al Hatmi from Greenova highlighted the company's participation in numerous entrepreneurial events, such as Start-up Weekend and national and international hackathons, where it secured first place in 2025. The company also competed in Qatar's 2024 championship and reached the finals of Oman's Injaz exhibition in 2025. Notably, Greenova won incubation support from Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Al Dhahirah under the "Dhakira Innovates" initiative, cementing its strong presence in sustainable innovation and entrepreneurship. — ONA
Observer
19-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
From ideas into actions: 'Start-up Weekend' to empower youth
Al Khabourah, June 19 The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and thriving in Oman as the global innovation event 'Start-up Weekend' kicks off this weekend at Al Khabourah Vocational College. This internationally renowned competition, licensed by the US-based organisation Techstars, is held under the supervision of the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED) for three days. Yahya bin Ibrahim al Niyadi, Director of Al Khabourah Vocational College, emphasised the importance of the event, saying: 'Hosting Start-up Weekend reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of innovation among students. It's inspiring to see so many young talents working together to create solutions that could shape Oman's future economy. This can be a major step in the entrepreneurial and innovation fields to encourage our youth to show their ideas turning into real projects and meeting expertises.' Start-up Weekend is no ordinary event, it's an intense, hands-on experience that gathers entrepreneurs, developers, designers and marketers under one roof to transform raw ideas into real start-up concepts. The participants form teams, develop prototypes and pitch their final projects to a panel of expert judges and all within one weekend. With the theme of 'Innovate, Build, Launch', this year's edition in Oman features the participation of 70 students from leading educational institutions, including Sultan Qaboos University, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Nizwa University, the University of Buraimi, A'Sharqiyah University, Oman College of Health Sciences, and vocational colleges from Suhar, Shinas, Al Seeb, Sur and Al Khabourah. The projects span across vital sectors such as technology, industry, healthcare, sustainability, agriculture, finance, sports and mobile applications, showcasing the depth and diversity of youth-driven innovation in Oman. The competition will be in four phases: idea pitching, team formation, project development with expert mentorship and final presentations. It not only promotes a strong culture of entrepreneurship, but also builds lasting connections between students and real-world investors, developers and start-up coaches. As the final day approaches, anticipation grows for the pitch session, where the most promising start-ups will be recognised – not just with prizes, but with the opportunity to move from prototype to product, from dream to enterprise.
