Saudi Awwal Bank and Goumbook Unveil the Second Edition of the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Venture Program
Saudi Awwal Bank, a prominent financial institution in Saudi Arabia, has teamed up with Goumbook, a trailblazing not-for-profit social enterprise driving sustainability initiatives in the MENA and GCC regions, to announce the launch of the second edition of the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Venture Program for the 2024/2025 cohort.
Empowering Innovators in Sustainable Agriculture
Following the success of the inaugural edition, the program underscores SAB’s dedication to promoting sustainable innovation in the MENAT region. It aims to equip researchers, students, and innovators with regenerative and entrepreneurial skills to address crucial challenges in food systems, biodiversity loss, climate change, and water management in the MENAT region.
Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Business
The program’s goal is to bridge the divide between academia, research, and the business sector by translating research, science, and nature-based solutions into sustainable outcomes tailored for small to medium-sized farm holders.
Encouraging Applications for Regenerative Solutions
Innovators, researchers, and students focusing on regenerative agriculture are invited to apply on the program’s website by January 6, 2025. Successful applicants will receive support to develop their regenerative solutions addressing issues like food security, water management, and ecosystem restoration.
Commitment to Sustainability
Faten Abalkhail, Chief Governance and Corporate Affairs Officer at SAB, emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting regenerative agriculture for environmental and economic benefits. The program aims to foster innovation and resilience to address challenges in soil health, water scarcity, and sustainable food production in the region.
Samantha Kayruz, Goumbook’s Strategy and Sustainability Impact Director, highlighted the program’s role in empowering researchers and innovators to tackle the region’s unique challenges related to food, water, and climate issues while enhancing livelihoods.
Embracing ESG Values
Aligned with SAB’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) vision, the bank recognizes the importance of ESG considerations for the Kingdom’s prosperity and the global economy. SAB is committed to integrating ESG principles into its operations to facilitate a sustainable transition.
Promoting Climate Resilience Through Regenerative Agriculture
Regenerative agriculture, with its focus on resilient crop varieties that require fewer resources and reduce chemical inputs, plays a crucial role in addressing agriculture and climate challenges in the MENAT region. Additionally, it has the potential to sequester carbon dioxide, making it a valuable climate change solution.
For more information about the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Venture Program, including eligibility criteria and the application process, visit www.MENATRegenerativeAgriculture.com.
