Client:
Abu Dhabi Public Health Center (ADPHC)
Supporters:
Department of Economic Development (DED), Spinneys
Ambition:
To encourage innovation in the healthy food industry by supporting startups and small businesses that develop nutritious, delicious and sustainable food solutions. Aligned with ADPHC’s wider strategy, the competition aimed to tackle obesity, improve dietary habits and promote healthier eating options within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Our approach:
Interact, appointed by ADPHC, managed and delivered the Healthy Startup Innovation Awards through a structured, transparent, and engaging process. Our role includes:
- Recruiting and engaging food startups across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.
- Developing clear competition guidelines, including scoring criteria, application processes, and judging structures.
- Providing training and mentorship, equipping participants with the tools needed to refine their products and business strategies.
- Onboarding industry experts as judges, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
- Hosting a high-impact awards ceremony, recognising the most promising startups and offering them valuable business growth opportunities.
Competition overview:
The Healthy Startup Innovation Awards celebrated innovative food startups in Abu Dhabi that are transforming healthy eating. Participants competed across four categories, showcasing nutritious, sustainable, and consumer-friendly food solutions.
A panel of industry experts evaluated entries based on health benefits, innovation, sustainability, consumer appeal, and market potential. Winners gained exclusive mentorship and exposure, with top startups shortlisted for the Spinneys Incubator Programme – a unique opportunity to fast-track supermarket listings and receive business coaching from industry leaders.
Tom Harvey, General Manager – Commercial at Spinneys, emphasized:
“This competition provided an incredible platform for startups to gain exposure and support. We were excited to see the creative solutions that will help promote healthier lifestyles in our community.”
Highlights:
- Over 100 startups engaged, from small food entrepreneurs to larger-scale manufacturers
- Spinneys onboarded by Interact as Competition Partner
- Educational toolkits & mentorship to help participants refine their products and business strategies
- Panel of expert judges, including leading nutritionists, chefs, and food industry professionals
- Strategic partnerships with key industry players such as HUB71, ADAFSA, and MAAN
- Exciting prizes, including business coaching and potential funding opportunities
- A high-profile awards ceremony at DOH HQ, featuring VIP guests, media coverage, and networking opportunities
About Interact:
Interact is a leading social impact agency specialising in the development and delivery of public health, wellbeing, and sustainability campaigns, programmes and events. We work with brands and government to embed healthy activity into communities across the region.
