QOOT Cluster proudly announced the winners of the 2025 Agrifood Innovation Award (AFIA) during a distinguished ceremony held at the iconic Sursock Museum, under the patronage of the President of the Council of Ministers, H.E. Prime Minister Mr. Nawaf Salam, represented by the Minister of Industry, H.E. Joe Issa-El-Khoury.
This year’s edition was celebrated under the inspiring theme “Lebanon Rises With Innovation.” The ceremony gathered more than 150 participants, including public authorities, national and international partners, academia, private sector and SME representatives, and members of the QOOT community, all united around a shared vision for Lebanon’s agrifood transformation.
About the Award
Launched in early 2025, the QOOT Agrifood Innovation Award aims to recognize, support, and elevate pioneering agrifood innovations capable of contributing to Lebanon’s economic revitalization and global competitiveness. This year, the award attracted 97 products submitted by 67 companies, showcasing the creativity, and resilience of Lebanon’s agrifood sector despite ongoing national challenges.
AFIA2025 Winners
QOOT Cluster is proud to announce the outstanding winners of this year’s six categories:
Each winner received a comprehensive package of tailored prizes designed to strengthen product development, enhance visibility and facilitate access to local and international markets.
Keynote Addresses & Panel Discussion
The ceremony featured remarks from:
H.E. Mr. Frank Mollen, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Lebanon
This year’s theme, Lebanon Rises with Innovation, reflects a national direction we are committed to strengthening.” — H.E. Joe Issa-El-Khoury
“Thanks to Lebanon’s weather, fertile land, and pioneering companies, agrifood must remain a key export and source of foreign currency.” — H.E. Sandra De Waele
“This award celebrates Lebanese producers who turn ideas into real solutions—and who continue to believe in Lebanon’s potential.” —H.E. Frank Mollen
“Innovation is not an option-it is a path forward.” — Mr. Nabil Schumann, President of QOOT Cluster
A major highlight of the evening was the panel discussion entitled “Lebanon Rises with Innovation: Policies, Partnerships, and the Path Ahead” featuring:
Mr. Cyril Dewaleyne, Deputy Head of Cooperation, Delegation of the European Union to Lebanon
The panel explored national innovation priorities, the role of public-private partnerships, and the future of Lebanon’s agrifood competitiveness.
The discussion underscored the critical importance of innovation-driven policies, stronger linkages between industry and academia, improved access to markets, and greater alignment with international sustainability standards.
This exchange reflected a shared commitment from national authorities and international partners to support Lebanon’s agrifood transition and strengthen its positioning in regional and global value chains.
AFIA2025 Jury Members
The winners were selected by an esteemed jury of experts representing academia, research, and international organizations:
Dr. Mohamad Abiad –Professor & Director of the LEAF Labs
Dr. Nancy Saliba – Director, Asher Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship – USEK
Dr. Wadih Skaff– Academic leader in analytical chemistry & agrifood quality
QOOT Cluster: Advancing Agrifood Innovation for Lebanon
Through the Agrifood Innovation Award, QOOT Cluster continues to position Lebanon as a regional hub for agrifood innovation, strengthening linkages across industry, academia, entrepreneurs, and global partners.
By empowering innovators with the tools, knowledge, and visibility needed to succeed, QOOT is helping drive competitiveness, sustainability, and market expansion, elevating Lebanon’s agrifood ecosystem both locally and internationally.
QOOT Cluster: Advancing Agrifood Innovation for Lebanon
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joelle Abi Younes
Joelle Abi Younes is the Communication and Outreach Coordinator at QOOT Lebanon Agrifood Innovation Cluster, where she combines her technical expertise with strategic communication skills to drive impactful outreach initiatives. With a degree in audiovisual studies, Joelle's passion for visual storytelling has shaped her creative approach to communication.
