Accredify, a Singapore-based start-up and service provider for issuing verifiable documents and information, emerged as the champion of the 2023 Supernova Challenge at Expand North Star Dubai, the world’s largest start-up event. The start-up received the US$100,000 grand prize after an intense final round of pitching against 27 global finalists from 521 entries.
The Supernova Challenge, in partnership with the Dubai Future District Fund, is the region’s biggest start-up pitch competition, offering US$200,000 in total cash prizes. The challenge was a key feature of Expand North Star Dubai, which hosted its biggest edition this year. It attracted over 1800+ start-ups from over 100 countries to explore the emerging opportunities in Dubai’s dynamic, diverse and tech-driven digital economy.
Simon Gordon, Chief Commercial Officer of the winning team, said: “Supernova 2023 has been an incredible experience. It’s surreal to win this challenge at Expand North Star. This region, particularly the UAE, has so many great opportunities, and we are excited about using this prize money to expand our presence here.”
One of the judges at Supernova, Sharif El-Badawi, CEO of Dubai Future District Fund, said: “It is encouraging to see a shift towards sustainable solutions that are better for the planet and its people. We witnessed several start-ups delivering concise yet compelling pitches that could impact our lives. The pitches we witnessed here at the Supernova Challenge are brimming with promise, unique innovations and inspiring ideas.”
An expertly curated list of categories covered the latest trends in tech, inviting start-ups to showcase innovations that can solve some of our most pressing challenges. These included AI Disruptor, Fintech & Ecommerce Disruptor, Blockchain & Web3 Disruptor, Mobility & Smart Cities Disruptor, Healthtech & Wellness Disruptor, Martech Disruptor, Insurtech Disruptor in partnership with MENA Insuretech, Female Founder Award in partnership with the Sharjah Businesswomen Council,Africa Fast Awardpresented by GITEX Africa, Asia Fast Award, India Fast Awardand the Top MENA Award. In collaboration with GITEX Impact and Future Urbanism, Expand North Star also awarded the most proficient Sustainability and ESG Disruptor.
Thirteen category winners representing the USA, India, UAE, South Korea, France, UK, Nigeria, Switzerland, China and Bangladesh took home US$8,000 each in prize money, while the winner of the Female Founder Award won US$10,000.
The Supernova Challenge featured 40 start-ups selected from the Expand North Star global roadshow, a series of international pitch competitions held by the Dubai World Trade Centre and DCDE to attract start-ups to Dubai and foster collaborations with digital ecosystems in various countries.