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Fast Forward Challenge @Investopia

Thank you all for your submissions to our start-up challenge! We are overwhelmed by the response.

While this edition of the DHL Fast Forward Challenge is over, innovation at DHL never stops. Tech providers can still connect with us by heading to our Warehouse of Innovation website below.

Let's shape the future of logistics together!

To the Warehouse of Innovation

Make sure to explore our FAQs for crucial details, including the participation deadline, prizes, and more.

Also check out how DHL’s innovations help our customers to achieve their strategic objectives here. Let's fast forward to a sustainable future, together!

Meet the Fast Forward Challenge Investopia 2025 Winners - Zelostech!

Zelostech’s autonomous delivery solution stood out for its innovative approach to urban logistics, impressing the judges with its potential to enhance efficiency and sustainability in last-mile delivery. This groundbreaking solution is set to make a significant impact on the industry, shaping the future of logistics through automation and smart technology.

The success of this challenge would not have been possible without the incredible support of Investopia. A special thank you to our partners—Dubai South, PwC, Logistics Middle East, Dubai Future Foundation and Ahoy—for their essential role in bringing this edition to life.

At DHL, we believe that true innovation happens through collaboration. Together, we are paving the way for the next generation of logistics solutions, fostering breakthroughs that drive the industry forward.

Focus Areas

This year, we focused on three specific areas: Life Sciences and Health Care, Outdoor Autonomous Logistics, Work Force Focus.

Supply chain solutions to deliver next-level healthcare

Specific focus on...

- Managing Deeper Temperatures

- Managing smaller, colder, more personalized shipments catering for direct to X delivery models

- Sustainable solutions, including reusable packaging solutions fit for the LSHC Distribution

- Cost effective and regionally viable visibility and security solutions (IoT, Computer vision and beyond)

Driving the implementation of autonomous solutions within our operations

Specific focus on...

- Automated Yard Operations

- Autonomous Intralogistics

- Long-Haul/Middle Mile Automation

Enhancing employee experience from the first touch point to the moment they leave the company

Specific focus on... 

- Physical and Mental Health and safety

- Skill based Learning and Development

- Technology Enabled Support in the Workspace

Participation Requirements

Are there any specific requirements or criteria that need to be met to participate?

To be eligible for the Fast Forward Challenge, participants must meet four key criteria. Firstly, they should be at the "Minimum Viable Product" stage. Additionally, participants should either have their headquarters situated in the MEA Region or be planning to enter the market in the near future with proof of such efforts and , the person who is recorded for the application should be the same person that will present, live at the FFC. And lastly the presenter must commit to attending three mentorship nights virtually or in-person, a dry run of the pitching contest and the actual contest- both days in person.

How do I apply to take part in the event?

To participate in the event you will need to submit your video application via the submission link. This will need to be submitted by the aforementioned deadline laid out in FAQ #6 (January 23rd 2025)

What is the process of application?

The application process is very simple! First, participants must have technologies/solutions that are focused on helping solve/overcome one of the specific issues from this year's theme and fill in an application. Second, participants must then create and submit an up to 5-minute video that includes:

A) An introduction to your company 

B) What the problem/issue you are solving is

C) A demonstration of your solution to for the judges to vote on (note: videos will be cut at 5 minutes if they overrun)

After this is submitted, your application will be reviewed, and you will be notified if you are invited to our event to pitch your solution. 

What do the pitches need to include? Are there any specific questions or objectives that need to be answered?

  • Pitches should include a solution that is specific to one of the points below.
  • The pitch should cover the 5 main points of judging criteria.

 

Focus

1) Life Science and Health Care Supply Chain Solutions to deliver next-level healthcare

2) Outdoor Autonomous Logistics

3) Work Force Focus-Enhancing employee experience from the first touch-point to the moment they leave the company

What are the time commitments required?

If selected as a finalist, please be aware of the following mandatory time commitments related to the event:

  • Shortlisted Virtual Pitch –Jan 27th (10 contestants, only 5 continue)
  • Mentorship nights (can be virtual) Jan 30, Feb 4, Feb 19
  • Dry run and tech run Feb 25th (Must be in person)
  • Actual pitch event Feb 26th (Must be in person)

If I make it through to the final and am unable to attend in person, can I participate virtually?

The event is face to face, therefore you will need to attend the final in person. Virtual attendance is prohibited. We recommend having an alternate delegate from your organization participate to not miss out on this opportunity to show your solution to this audience. The alternative must be preapproved by the FFC planning team.

Challenge Details

What is Fast Forward Challenge Fast Forward Challenge MEA 2024?

The Fast Forward Challenge is a program facilitated by DPDHL Research & Innovation GmbH that provides networking opportunities, visibility, mentorship, and the chance for five startups to present their businesses to DHL Senior leadership, government officials, investors, and venture capitalists over the course of a few weeks.

This competition allows startups to fast forward their business to the next stage of their target trajectory. The program culminates in a pitching competition, with one startup ultimately chosen as the Fast Forward Challenge winner. The Fast Forward Challenge offers startups the opportunity to showcase their innovative technologies and solutions, with a focus on navigating the future of logistics and supply chain in the MEA region and beyond.

Who is permitted to attend and participate in the challenge?

We have an inclusive culture at DHL, so any business (regardless of size) that is working towards creating a solution suitable with this year's theme and has a minimum viable product is permitted to participate in the event. Employees of the DPDHL Group are unable to pitch solutions in this event.

What is the reward/benefit of participating in and attending the challenge?

  • Exclusive professional public speaking coaching by a renowned expert.
  • Mentorship opportunity with two industry experts for each selected startup.
  • Unique workshop on perfecting your pitch deck delivered by "Plug and Play."
  • Passes to Investopia talks and presentations offered to all shortlisted participants.
  • Passes to the Future 100 events (apart from private roundtables) offered to all shortlisted participants.
  • Proof of Concept opportunity with DHL or Dubai South for suitable solution fits.
  • One-year trade license package from Dubai South.
  • Featured piece on DHL's Innovation Insights and other DHL channels.
  • Five hours of customized consultation from PwC to address your specific needs.
  • Access to the extensive DHL network
  • Ignyte will offer one year of free membership to all shortlisted contestants
  • Exhibit placement in DHLMEA Innovation Center
  • Feature piece “article” in Logistics Middle East
  • Winners on 26th February to receive the following from AHOY:
  • Winner to receive (1- USD 10,000 in public credits; 2- USD 250,000 worth of logistical AI tools from AHOY).
  • 1st runner up to receive: (1- USD 5,000 in public credits, 2- USD 100,000 worth of logistical AI tools from AHOY).
  • The 3 runner ups will receive USD 2,500 public credits each from AHOY.

Why should I be interested in participating in the event?

This event allows you to showcase your most innovative technologies and solutions, that are helping address or even solve the world’s largest sustainable issues, to people who share the goal of implementing solutions to make their supply chains cleaner and more efficient.

  • Deadline Jan 23rd
  • 10 Shortlisted need to be available for virtual pitch on Jan 27th 

What will be the judging criteria?

The judging criteria are as follows:

  • Innovation
  • Solution Market Fit
  • Commercial Viability
  • Solution Readiness
  • Sustainability (Environmental and/or Social)

 

Innovation: This criterion assesses the originality and creativity of the solution. Judges will look for ideas that push the boundaries of current logistics and supply chain practices. The solution should demonstrate a unique approach or technology that sets it apart from existing solutions in the market.

Solution Market Fit: This criterion evaluates how well the solution addresses the needs and pain points of the target market. Judges will consider the relevance and demand for the solution within the logistics and supply chain industry. The solution should have a clear value proposition and demonstrate potential for widespread adoption.

Commercial Viability: This criterion examines the commercial viability and scalability of the solution. Judges will assess the business model, revenue streams, and financial projections. The solution should show potential for profitability and sustainable growth, with a clear plan for scaling the business.

Solution Readiness: This criterion looks at the development stage of the solution. Judges will evaluate whether the solution has a minimum viable product (MVP) and how close it is to being market ready. The solution should demonstrate functional capabilities and readiness for implementation in real-world scenarios.

Sustainability: This criterion assesses the environmental and/or social impact of the solution. Judges will consider how the solution contributes to sustainable practices within the logistics and supply chain industry. The solution should promote eco-friendly methods, reduce carbon footprint, and/or support social responsibility initiatives or enable empowerment of the workforce by enabling safe, inclusive, and purpose-driven workplace.

By evaluating startups based on these criteria, the Fast Forward Challenge aims to identify and support innovative solutions that have the potential to transform the logistics and supply chain industry.

When is the deadline for application submission?

All submissions must be made via the submission form by the above-mentioned deadline (Jan 23rd, 2025)

Event Logistics: When, Where and What

Where will the challenge take place?

St Regis Abu Dhabi

When will the challenge take place?

  • February 26th, 2025
  • Please note this is an invite event only and attendance is not open to the general public

Where do I submit my proposal?

To enter the challenge you will need to submit your application via our submission form. This will need to be completed by the above mentioned deadlines (Jan 23rd, 2025)

How many team members are allowed to take part in the event?

Each video should include one person presenting and this person must be the same person who pitches with the shortlisted as well as at the in-person competition.

Are there any costs to attend/enter the event?

There are no costs to enter the event. DHL is not responsible for any costs incurred during the production of the submission process.  If visas are required for travel, applicants will be required to obtain these on their own. DHL can provide letters supporting the purpose of the visit if required.

Is there any funding available for start-ups to help them participate in the event?

There is no funding available to create solutions or pitches in this competition

When will I be informed of the outcome of my proposal?

All applications will go through a rigorous review process by potential end users and subject matter experts. Should you be selected to participate in the event, you will be notified ASAP following our selection process, and no later than Jan 24th. Due to high response rate, we will not be able to notify those participants who were not shortlisted.

Who should I contact if I face any issues throughout the application process?

For questions or concerns, you can email meaic@dhl.com with Subject line “*Company name* FFC Support Request”.

If my application makes it to the final, what do I need to prepare?

If your solution is chosen to be presented at the event, you will be notified ASAP. A member of the DHL Innovation Center and Trend Research Team will be in contact with you, to help you and your organization prepare for the event, and to answer any questions you may have along the way.

Jury

Alia Al Mur

 Chief Transformation and Partnerships Officer

DFF

Connect on Linkedin

Dominik Baumeister

Global Transport and Logistics Leader

PwC

Connect on Linkedin

Jana Elkova

Entrepreneurship Development Expert

UAE Ministry of Economy

Connect on Linkedin

Mentors

Aseel Alfar

Revenue Growth Leader - Commercial Operations Director

Ahoy

Connect on Linkedin

Scott Cairns

Creative Consultant

Creation Business Consultants

Connect on Linkedin

Ragah Dorenkamp

Senior Manager Communications MENA

DHL

Connect on Linkedin

Jaime Nunez-Frigols

Senior Aviation Consultant

PwC

Connect on Linkedin

Hall of Innovators - Past Editions' Winners

Meet Freterium the winner of Fast Forward Challenge 2024

Celebrating the exceptional achievement of Freterium, whose winning solution focuses on understanding of Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and logistics optimization. This highlight interview with Mehdi Cherif Alami, CEO of Freterium,  captures their journey, their impact, and how their ideas have shaped the future. Freterium’s cloud-based TMS solutions empower businesses of all sizes to optimize logistics operations and boost supply chain efficiency through planning automation, route optimization, real-time visibility, and more. Discover how Freterium continues to transform the logistics industry, delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive operational efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate customer satisfaction.

Meet ARC Ride the winner of Fast Forward Challenge 2023

Step into the world of innovation with ARC Ride. Their solution, designed to tackle the urgent need for sustainable mass transportation in rapidly-growing African cities, left a lasting mark and continues to push boundaries in the industry. ARC Ride is paving the way with a scalable model that integrates a fleet of electric vehicles and the necessary battery charging infrastructure. Watch their story and be inspired by their forward-thinking approach to transforming urban mobility. 

Event Partners

Strategic Partner: Shaping the Future of Logistics Together

We are thrilled to announce Investopia as an esteemed event partner. Investopia is an investment platform dedicated to advancing global prosperity by fostering a dynamic investment ecosystem centered on emerging economies. By bringing together the world's most influential stakeholders, Investopia explores key trends shaping the global economy, unlocks investment opportunities, drives meaningful collaboration, and lays the groundwork for a brighter future. Join us in welcoming Investopia and be part of a transformative journey towards global economic growth and innovation.

To know more about Investopia, visit www.investopia.ae

Strategic Partner: Dubai South – An Integrated Ecosystem and City of the Future

We are excited to announce Dubai South as a strategic partner. As the largest single urban master development which incorporates key verticals, including the Logistics District, the Residential District, and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub, Dubai South will also house the world’s largest airport when fully operational.

Representing the epitome of logistical innovation, Dubai South Logistics District offers premier services and operations as well as uninterrupted access to Jebel Ali Port via a bonded logistics corridor. The district incorporates EZDubai, a fully dedicated e-commerce free zone; strategically located in the heart of the district.

 

Highlights from the Fast Forward Challenge MEA 2024 Edition
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