Meet the ACSI3 Bootcamp Teams
The Asfari Challenge for Social Innovation (ACSI3) is proud to unveil the exceptional shortlist of social enterprises selected for our third-edition Bootcamp. These innovators from Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and the Syrian diaspora embody the spirit of entrepreneurship with a purpose. Their solutions tackle pressing social and environmental challenges, demonstrating the potential of business to create positive impact. Get ready to be inspired as we introduce the teams spearheading change!
Team Profiles
Access
Sector
Food & Beverage
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being, Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, and more
The Problem
Rural communities face challenges such as urban migration, income disparity, and reliance on less healthy food options. This can lead to the loss of valuable traditional knowledge.
Their Solution
Access bridges generations, combining organic farming practices with traditional culinary techniques. This approach creates healthy, convenient food products while revitalizing rural economies and promoting intergenerational knowledge exchange.
Alrazi
Sector
Health Care
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being, Decent Work and Economic Growth
The Problem
Gaza's healthcare system faces the ongoing challenges of conflict and outdated technology. This hinders efficient patient care and burdens healthcare providers.
Their Solution
Alrazi introduces a computerized medical system. This solution promises streamlined processes, better access to patient information, and improved healthcare outcomes for the people of Gaza.
Askadar for Culture and Arts
Sector
Education
SDG Focus
Quality Education, Gender Equality, Good Health and Well-being, Reduced Inequality
The Problem
Limited opportunities in Nablus can leave youth feeling creatively stifled and disconnected from their cultural heritage.
Their Solution
Askadar fills this gap with vibrant arts education programs. They nurture young talent, promote Palestinian identity through art, and open pathways to self-expression and future careers.
Athar
Sector
Media
SDG Focus
Decent Work and Economic Growth
The Problem
Freelancers in Saida lack the support and resources to thrive, contributing to underdevelopment and the loss of skilled workers.
Their Solution
Athar creates a dynamic community for freelancers. Their affordable coworking space, childcare services, and skills training programs empower individuals while boosting the entire region's potential.
Awfarli
Sector
Technology
SDG Focus
Decent Work and Economic Growth, Sustainable Cities, Responsible Consumption
The Problem
Lebanon's economic crisis makes finding affordable groceries a daily struggle. Consumers need tools to make informed choices and manage their budgets.
Their Solution
Awfarli's mobile app puts power in your hands! Get real-time price comparisons across stores, helping you save money, support local businesses, and reduce food waste.
BassmaT Shabab
Sector
Education
SDG Focus
Quality Education, Gender Equality
The Problem
Limited educational resources and opportunities for youth collaboration can hinder progress in semi-isolated regions.
Their Solution
BassmaT Shabab creates a dynamic learning environment. Their focus on dialogue, cooperation, and idea exchange empowers youth and drives innovative educational solutions.
Bee Cure
Sector
Health Care
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being
The Problem
Harsh chemicals and ineffective treatments leave people searching for safe, natural solutions to common skin problems.
Their Solution
Bee Cure harnesses the remarkable properties of beehive ingredients to soothe, heal, and protect your skin. This 100% natural formula promotes healthy, radiant skin for everyone.
Bird Saver
Sector
Agriculture
SDG Focus
Responsible Consumption and Production, Good Health and Well-being, Affordable and Clean Energy
The Problem
Birds can cause significant crop damage and health risks, often leading to harmful management methods.
Their Solution
Bird Saver offers technology-driven & eco-friendly solutions. Their solution promotes coexistence, protecting harvests, public health, and the environment.
Blue Filter
Sector
Agriculture
SDG Focus
Clean Water and Sanitation, Zero Hunger, Climate Action
The Problem
Contaminated water threatens crop yields, food security, and the health of ecosystems. Farmers need reliable purification solutions.
Their Solution
Blue Filter delivers advanced water purification systems designed for agriculture. They remove harmful pollutants, promoting healthier crops and sustainable practices.
Cactee
Sector
Renewables & Environment
SDG Focus
Clean Water and Sanitation, Gender Equality, Climate Action, Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Traditional leather production raises significant ethical and environmental concerns, from animal welfare to heavy water and chemical use.
Their Solution
Cactee champions a new frontier with its revolutionary cactus-based leather. This innovative, sustainable material offers a luxurious and ethical alternative, transforming the fashion industry.
Cloud to Cup
Sector
Renewables & Environment
SDG Focus
Clean Water and Sanitation, Good Health and Well-being, Sustainable Cities and Communities
The Problem
Lebanon's water crisis leaves communities vulnerable. Polluted sources and unreliable infrastructure threaten health and well-being.
Their Solution
Cloud to Cup empowers communities with atmospheric water generation. Their technology offers a sustainable, self-sufficient source of pure drinking water.
DardaChat
Sector
Education
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being
The Problem
Miscommunication and a lack of quality time can strain parent-child bonds, impacting the well-being of the entire family.
Their Solution
DardaChat's “Connection Cards” spark meaningful conversations, fostering understanding, empathy, and strong family relationships.
Dawn
Sector
Nonprofit Organization Management
SDG Focus
Peace and Justice Strong Institutions
The Problem
Inmates often lack the resources and support they need to successfully reintegrate into society after release, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage.
Their Solution
Through skills training, product creation, and income opportunities, Dawn empowers inmates to build self-sufficiency and prepare for a life beyond prison.
Eco-chic
Sector
Renewables & Environment
SDG Focus
Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Eco-chic addresses fashion waste and the environmental impact of fast fashion, promoting conscious consumerism.
Their Solution
They provide a platform for pre-owned fashion, offering a sustainable alternative to reduce waste and create a new fashion paradigm.
eRecycleHUB
Sector
Renewables & Environment
SDG Focus
Sustainable Cities and Communities, Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Partnerships to achieve the Goal
The Problem
Inefficient waste management and a lack of digital tools hinder recycling efforts, leading to environmental damage and missed economic opportunities.
Their Solution
eRecycleHUB transforms the industry with their recycling and waste technology platform. They streamline processes, maximize recycling, and create a more circular and sustainable economy.
Eshtreeli
Sector
Food & Beverage
SDG Focus
Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action
The Problem
Frequent food deliveries increase traffic congestion and carbon emissions, contributing to environmental concerns.
Their Solution
Eshtreeli offers a smarter way to order! By consolidating deliveries, they reduce trips, cut emissions, and promote sustainable consumption. Enjoy your favorite foods with a smaller environmental footprint.
Ghanem Mills
Sector
Food & Beverage
SDG Focus
Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Ghanem Mills addresses the demand for burgul and supports local farmers by purchasing raw materials for natural, healthy food production.
Their Solution
Their factory produces various types of burgul and other products, creating jobs with a preference for women in rural areas, and reducing the need for imported goods.
GRADE A PLUS
Sector
Agriculture
SDG Focus
Life on Land, Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Sheep wool waste in Lebanon poses a pollution risk, highlighting the need for eco-friendly disposal solutions.
Their Solution
GRADE A PLUS offers upcycling by transforming wool into blankets and soil enhancers. This approach establishes a circular economy, promoting sustainable resource use and benefiting modern agriculture.
H2OPure
Sector
Food & Beverage
SDG Focus
Clean Water and Sanitation, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
The Problem
Lebanon's current water supply chain is fragile, relying heavily on diesel power. This leads to both environmental concerns and high costs for consumers.
Their Solution
H2OPure revolutionizes the water supply by using solar-powered filtration stations. This decentralized approach reduces pollution, lowers production costs, and makes clean water more affordable for everyone.
HYTC Team
Sector
Education
SDG Focus
Quality Education, Decent Work and Economic Growth
The Problem
High graduate unemployment poses a significant challenge, leaving young people without the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.
Their Solution
HYTC Team bridges this gap by providing tailored training programs. Their academic and vocational focus equips graduates with in-demand skills, increasing their employability and boosting the overall economy.
Impactek
Sector
Technology
SDG Focus
Impact Entrepreneurship Development
The Problem
Underserved communities lack the digital skills needed to fully utilize technology for social impact.
Their Solution
Impactek provides digital training and resources, empowering communities to create greater social change and fostering economic inclusion.
Intelfarm
Sector
Renewables & Environment
SDG Focus
Zero Hunger, Climate Action, Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Inefficient organic waste management contributes to environmental pollution and hinders sustainable food production.
Their Solution
Intelfarm revolutionizes waste management with their innovative composting technology. They transform organic waste into valuable compost, supporting healthy soil, reducing emissions, and promoting a circular economy.
iplugn
Sector
Technology
SDG Focus
Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Reduced Inequalities
The Problem
Small businesses in the MENA region struggle to compete in the online marketplace dominated by large e-commerce platforms.
Their Solution
Small businesses in the MENA region struggle to compete in the online marketplace. iplugn provides a powerful yet accessible SaaS platform, enabling merchants to easily build and manage their online stores. This fosters a more inclusive e-commerce landscape and supports entrepreneurship. dominated by large e-commerce platforms.
Jusoor Labs
Sector
Education
SDG Focus
Quality Education, Gender Equality, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Reduced Inequalities
The Problem
Limited resources and infrastructure create barriers to hands-on STEM education, particularly for underrepresented groups.
Their Solution
Jusoor Labs bridges this gap with engaging 3D simulations and virtual lab experiences. Their solution makes STEM learning accessible to all, regardless of location or background.
Kashif
Sector
Media
SDG Focus
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
The Problem
The spread of misinformation, particularly during health crises, undermines public trust and decision-making.
Their Solution
Their digital platform focuses on factual reporting and training to promote informed public discourse and safeguard community trust.
Khizana
Sector
Retail (with a focus on sustainability)
SDG Focus
Responsible Consumption and Production, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Gender Equality
The Problem
Fast fashion contributes to environmental harm, and affordable clothing options in Lebanon are often limited.
Their Solution
Khizana promotes a circular fashion model with their online marketplace for pre-loved clothing. They offer an accessible and sustainable way to shop, supporting local communities and minimizing textile waste.
L.E.B
Sector
Renewables & Environment
SDG Focus
Climate Action, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
The Problem
Inefficient waste disposal practices, including random dumps, contribute to environmental pollution and resource depletion.
Their Solution
L.E.B provides practical waste management solutions, transforming waste into valuable resources. Their approach supports a circular economy and promotes a cleaner, healthier environment.
Meraki
Sector
Nonprofit Organization Management
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being, Quality Education, Decent Work and Economic Growth
The Problem
Many elderly individuals face social isolation and lack access to stimulating activities, impacting their well-being.
Their Solution
Meraki cultivates a sense of belonging by providing welcoming spaces for the elderly to connect and participate in enriching activities. Their approach promotes social inclusion and improves overall quality of life.
Minzaitoon
Sector
Agriculture
SDG Focus
Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-being, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
The Problem
Limited economic opportunities and underutilization of olive by-products lead to inefficiencies in the olive industry, affecting community welfare and sustainability.
Their Solution
Minzaitoon leverages every part of the olive tree, enhancing local economies through fair trade, innovating with health and wellness products, and fostering a circular economy.
NeuroTech
Sector
Technology
SDG Focus
Gender Equality, Affordable and Clean Energy, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities and Communities
The Problem
The lack of efficient energy and water management in humanitarian settings, particularly in refugee camps, leading to limited access to clean water, unreliable energy sources, and environmental degradation, which significantly impact the well-being and living conditions.
Their Solution
NeuroTech (Smart Eye Global) deploys smart technology solutions to optimize energy and water use in humanitarian settings. Their approach improves resource efficiency and overall living conditions for displaced communities.
Nirvana
Sector
Design
SDG Focus
Responsible Consumption and Production, Sustainable Cities and Communities
The Problem
Refugee camps often lack dedicated event planning and decor services, limiting opportunities for celebration and community connection.
Their Solution
Nirvana brings joy and vibrancy to camp life by providing accessible event planning services. They focus on resource efficiency and skill-building within the local community, promoting resilience and a sense of normalcy.
Ohana
Sector
Education
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being
The Problem
Limited opportunities for skill-building and social connection contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Their Solution
Ohana fosters a supportive community through workshops and activities that promote skill development and meaningful social engagement.
Olistic
Sector
Technology
SDG Focus
No Poverty, Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Reduced Inequality, Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Artisans often struggle to reach wider markets and face challenges in building sustainable businesses.
Their Solution
A holistic marketplace connecting sustainable artists with conscious consumers, supporting local communities, and promoting authentic, unique products.
Precision Agriculture
Sector
Agriculture (Agritech)
SDG Focus
Clean Water and Sanitation, Affordable and Clean Energy, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Traditional farming practices often lead to water waste and overuse of resources, harming the environment and limiting sustainability.
Their Solution
Precision Agriculture champions resource efficiency with advanced technologies like drip irrigation and solar-powered systems. Their solutions optimize water use, reduce energy consumption, and enhance crop productivity for a more sustainable future.
Psych Friends
Sector
Healthcare
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being, Reduced Inequality
The Problem
Stigma and limited access to resources hinder mental health support, particularly for young people struggling with depression.
Their Solution
Psych Friends offers an innovative app that combats mental health challenges with symptom tracking, personalized guidance, and a supportive online community. Their approach promotes accessibility and breaks down barriers for those seeking help.
Qerat
Sector
Food & Beverage
SDG Focus
Decent Work and Economic Growth, Responsible Consumption and Production, Zero Hunger
The Problem
Valuable and nutritious natural resources are often wasted, missing out on their potential for food production.
Their Solution
Qerat Team drives innovation by transforming underutilized natural resources into healthy and sustainable food products. Their approach combats waste, supports local economies, and promotes responsible consumption.
Ramy's Ecological Farm
Sector
Agriculture
SDG Focus
No Poverty, Good Health and Well-being, Gender Equality, Responsible Consumption and Production, Life on Land
The Problem
Unsustainable agricultural practices threaten biodiversity, soil health, and community well-being.
Their Solution
Ramy's Ecological Farm serves as a model for sustainable farming methods integrated with ecological principles. Their approach promotes healthy ecosystems, food security, and resilient communities.
Re-done
Sector
Design (with emphasis on upcycling)
SDG Focus
Responsible Consumption and Production
The Problem
Excess household items often end up as waste, and finding affordable, stylish decor can be a challenge.
Their Solution
Re-done inspires creative upcycling, transforming unwanted items into unique home décor pieces. Their approach promotes sustainability while offering budget-friendly design solutions.
Reef
Sector
Agriculture
SDG Focus
No Poverty, Gender Equality, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Reduced Inequalities
The Problem
Limited economic opportunities and lack of agricultural skills disproportionately impact women in marginalized communities.
Their Solution
Reef empowers women through sustainable agriculture training. They provide income-generating skills, enhance food security, and promote self-reliance within vulnerable communities.
RobotX
Sector
Education
SDG Focus
Quality Education, Gender Equality
The Problem
Limited access to engaging STEAM education hinders children's potential for innovation and future-ready skills.
Their Solution
RobotX ignites a passion for learning by offering hands-on STEAM courses with robotics, AI, and other cutting-edge technologies. Their approach fosters problem-solving skills, creativity, and prepares young learners for a rapidly changing world.
Rooh
Sector
Media
SDG Focus
Impact Entrepreneurship Development
The Problem
Conflict and crisis leave lasting psychological scars on communities. Traditional media coverage often lacks nuance and sensitivity, further contributing to trauma.
Their Solution
Rooh redefines humanitarian storytelling with a focus on human dignity and resilience. They leverage AI to create content that fosters empathy, understanding, and promotes healing.
Shaban
Sector
Financial Services
SDG Focus
Impact Entrepreneurship Development
The Problem
Traditional lending practices often exclude individuals and small businesses without extensive financial histories, limiting economic opportunities.
Their Solution
Shaban revolutionizes lending by harnessing machine learning for alternative credit assessments. Their crowd-lending platform connects creditworthy borrowers with investors, fueling entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
Sole
Sector
Food & Beverage
SDG Focus
Good Health and Well-being
The Problem
Finding delicious and genuinely healthy food options can be challenging, with many products containing refined sugars and artificial ingredients.
Their Solution
Sole offers a tempting range of healthy spreads crafted from all-natural ingredients. Their commitment to wholesome flavors, free from refined sugars and preservatives, makes healthy eating both satisfying and sustainable.
Studio Nasawe
Sector
Media
SDG Focus
Gender Equality, Reduced Inequalities, Quality Education
The Problem
Limited media platforms dedicated to women's voices and perspectives perpetuate inequality and stifle self-expression.
Their Solution
Studio Nasawe empowers women storytellers through workshops and a digital platform. They foster a safe and inclusive space where women can share their experiences, challenge social norms, and amplify their voices.
SDG Focus
No Poverty, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Gender Equality
The Problem
Talented women artisans in refugee communities lack opportunities to turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods, perpetuating economic hardship.
Their Solution
The Studio empowers refugee women by nurturing their craftsmanship and offering a platform to showcase their unique creations. Their approach fosters financial independence, preserves traditional skills, and builds a thriving community.
The Worm Factory
Sector
Agriculture
SDG Focus
Zero Hunger, Responsible Consumption and Production, Life on Land
The Problem
Limited access to sustainable fertilizers and lack of composting knowledge hinder soil health and eco-friendly farming practices.
Their Solution
The Worm Factory makes vermicomposting accessible by providing all-in-one solutions. They offer custom bins, worms, and expert guidance, empowering individuals and farmers to create nutrient-rich compost for healthier crops and a cleaner environment.
Venero
Sector
Technology
SDG Focus
Responsible Consumption and Production, Climate Action, Decent Work and Economic Growth
The Problem
The fashion industry is a major polluter, with fast fashion fueling a cycle of waste and unsustainable practices.
Their Solution
A vibrant online marketplace dedicated to secondhand clothing, thrifted fashion, and sustainably-made items. Venero empowers consumers to make eco-friendly choices, extends the lifespan of garments, and supports a circular economy where clothing is reused and repurposed.
The ACSI3 program is designed to empower individuals and teams to make their vision for a better world a reality.
Organizers
The Asfari Foundation is a UK-based grant-making charity set up by Ayman and Sawsan Asfari in 2006. The Foundation focuses its efforts in the Levant and UK. Through its grant-making programs, the Foundation invests in, and supports the sustainability of, a resilient and empowered civil society infrastructure and innovative youth, who can collectively lead a transformational positive change in their communities and countries. Together with its valued partners, the Foundation is determined to realize its vision for a just world where people have equal opportunities to transform their lives, invest in their communities, and shape the future of their countries.
Bloom has supported entrepreneurship programs in the EuroMENA region for over 14 years and online and hybrid online & offline programs for 6 years, continually innovating our methods and tools to improve the learning experience for the participants, the growth of the enterprises, and our collective impact on our communities.