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Fast Forward Challenge @Investopia

Now in its fourth year, our event stands at the forefront of innovation in the supply chain and logistics sectors. Scheduled to take place on February 26, 2025 during the 4th annual meeting of Investopia, the Fast Forward Challenge is more than just a competition—it's a platform for startups to showcase their groundbreaking solutions, receive ongoing mentorship, and forge valuable connections with venture capitalists.

Our commitment to fostering a sustainable and supportive environment for logistics startups is reflected in our robust network of longstanding and new partnerships. We aim to ensure that these startups have a reliable home as they grow and innovate, providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed.

Join us for a journey of inspiration, opportunity, and growth at the Fast Forward Challenge @Investopia. Be part of the future of logistics and supply chain innovation!

Focus Areas

This year, we're excited to focus 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

To be considered for the Fast Forward Challenge, your solution should fit into one of these categories. We can't wait to see your innovative ideas.

SUBMIT YOUR SOLUTION

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 organisation 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?

  • Proof of Concept with DHL or Dubai South for appropriate solution fit
  • Trade license package for one year from Dubai South
  • Three months of office space in AREA2071 provided by the Dubai Future Foundation
  • Featured piece on DHL's Innovation Insights and other DHL channels
  • Five hours of customized consultation from PwC to address your specific needs
  • Three nights of mentorship focused on perfecting your pitch and deck for all finalists
  • Access to the extensive DHL network
  • Exhibit placement in DHLMEA Innovation Center
  • Feature piece in Logistics Middle East

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
  • Finance
  • Solution Readiness
  • Sustainability

 

Innovation: This criterion assesses the originality and creativity of the solution. Judges will look for groundbreaking 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.

Finance: This criterion examines the financial 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 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 support social responsibility initiatives.

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 organisation prepare for the event, and to answer any questions you may have along the way.

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. 

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

Highlights from the Fast Forward Challenge MEA 2024 Edition
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