Egypt’s Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT) launched the EQLIM initiative on 11 November 2026.
The programme is part of the Innovation State plan that emerged from the Egypt Forum 2026.
EQLIM will operate through the academy’s regional development centres, where field testing and impact measurement will take place.
Researchers, universities, research centres and industrial companies can submit applied projects until 11 January 2027.
Higher Education Minister Abdelaziz Konsowa said the aim is to move research from knowledge to practical application, localise technology and strengthen links between academia and industry.
Acting president Mamdouh Moawad said EQLIM targets eight development challenges matched to each region:
- Alexandria: rainwater and flash‑flood harvesting and water reuse in Matrouh;
- El Maghra: cheaper and more efficient desert farming through smart irrigation;
- Borg El Arab: local manufacture of green hydrogen technology;
- Gharbia: higher‑value jasmine products;
- New Valley: added value to dates and palm products through better processing, drying and packaging, and use of palm waste;
- Sohag: turning agricultural, food and industrial waste into marketable products;
- Red Sea: protection of marine life and biodiversity.
A Science for Future Generations strand will run across all regions with interactive science activities for children and young people.
Mohamed El‑Amir Hegazy, supervisor of the regional development centres, said the initiative is open to proposals that offer practical, implementable solutions to the listed challenges.
