Competition highlights local innovation

A competition held in the Technopole de Dembéni focused on projects related to biodiversity preservation and the blue economy, marking the end of Innovation Week 2026. Out of fifty applications received by October 24, ten were chosen for the final round, from which five winners emerged.

Winners receive financial and technical support

Each of the five winning projects will receive 10,000 euros in direct funding, supported by the departmental community. Additionally, they will benefit from a technical support program by the ADIM to help refine their economic models and bring their ideas to life.

Encouraging local talent and creativity

According to Zamimou Ahamadi, vice-president of the Departmental Council, the competition aims to identify local creativity and assist young entrepreneurs in moving from idea to implementation. Many participants have strong concepts but struggle with the financial aspects of launching a project, especially those who are new to entrepreneurship.

Waste-to-charcoal project stands out

One of the notable projects was presented by Antoifina Ali and Gaël Brice, a Belgian engineer specializing in waste management. Their initiative involves converting household and industrial waste into affordable charcoal for domestic use, addressing both waste management and energy needs in Mayotte.

Focus on sustainability and local needs

The project targets a price of one euro per kilogram of charcoal, aligning with local cooking habits and aiming to reduce household expenses. Gaël Brice emphasized the ambition of the project, noting that the team plans to continue developing the solution regardless of the timing of external funding.

Diverse range of innovative solutions

Other winning proposals included ideas for decarbonized public transport and digital tools to simplify administrative tasks for residents. The winners will now enter an incubation phase with ADIM, which will provide legal guidance, prototyping workshops, and connections to research and development experts.

Support for all participants remains available

Even those not selected as winners can access general business creation support programs. The 2026 edition of Innov'ACTION 976 underscores a broader goal of fostering sustainable industries in Mayotte, turning local challenges into opportunities for long-term employment and development.