Arabian Gulf Steel Industries and Sustain Labs Paris Launch Initiative for Youth
New Partnership Announcement
At the forefront of sustainability and innovation, Arabian Gulf Steel Industries (AGSI) and Sustain Labs Paris (SLP) have teamed up to unveil the AGSI Youth Microgrant for Circularity during GITEX 2025. This initiative aims to empower high school and university students throughout the UAE by providing them with financial support to develop projects that tackle community and environmental challenges through circular economy principles. This collaborative effort was revealed by Dr. Miniya Chatterji, CEO of SLP, alongside Chanda Hussain, Executive Director at AGSI.
Commitment to Sustainability and Education
This partnership marks the first collaboration between AGSI and SLP, both of which share a strong commitment to promoting sustainability education and inspiring innovation among young minds. By connecting academic learning with real-world applications, the program aligns with the UAE’s vision to create a knowledge-based economy and nurture environmentally aware leaders of tomorrow.
AGSI stands as the largest private steel manufacturer and recycler in the UAE, with its Abu Dhabi facility recently achieving the milestone of being the MENA region’s first carbon-neutral steel plant. SLP, recognized globally as the largest venture builder focused on sustainable innovation, brings extensive experience in the education sector to this partnership. Together, they aim to influence a sustainable future through this joint initiative.
Overview of the AGSI Youth Microgrant for Circularity
The AGSI Youth Microgrant for Circularity is designed to establish an educational fund to assist students aged 16 to 21 in creating and implementing community projects centered around circularity. These initiatives may include vital areas such as water conservation, material reuse, and waste reduction. With microgrants, technical support, and mentorship, the program seeks to empower the youth to transform their innovative ideas into meaningful community impacts. Participants will cultivate essential problem-solving, entrepreneurial, and technical skills while driving significant sustainability efforts.
AGSI’s commitment to circularity is embedded within its operational ethos. The organization has developed a responsible growth model that prioritizes resource reuse and minimizes emissions. “Through this initiative, we’re not just fostering innovation; we’re investing in the next generation of leaders who will be instrumental in shaping a circular economy for the UAE,” Chanda Hussain remarked. This partnership with SLP enhances AGSI’s existing work with academic institutions to cultivate green skills, creativity, and a sense of environmental responsibility among the youth.
The Vision of Sustain Labs Paris
Dr. Miniya Chatterji articulated her enthusiasm regarding the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with AGSI, who exemplifies the principles of circularity. This partnership provides essential micro-capital that allows students to take initiatives, design, and implement their own community-focused projects aimed at solving environmental issues.” By fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among students, this program channels their efforts toward addressing significant challenges in society.
Initiative Rollout and Expected Outcomes
The initial cycle of the AGSI Youth Microgrant for Circularity is set to commence in October 2025, targeting around 200 students from various schools and universities across the UAE. By Earth Day 2026, these students will present their completed projects, showcasing the measurable impact achieved through their endeavors.
About Sustain Labs Paris
Founded in 2018 under the direction of Dr. Miniya Chatterji, Sustain Labs Paris (SLP) has positioned itself as a leader in sustainability and climate-focused venture building. With a significant presence across Europe, MENA, and Asia, SLP offers services that include creating and managing new ventures, formulating deep decarbonization strategies, and providing climate advisory support. SLP has made notable strides in the industry, including leading the UAE’s first Carbon Capture & Storage project and establishing India’s first climate action school.
Equipped with the backing of the Clinton Global Initiative, SLP has initiatives aimed at setting up climate schools in vulnerable regions globally. Annually, they evaluate the sustainability practices of over 200 companies and deliver hundreds of technical assessments across diverse sustainability domains. Their ongoing projects span multiple countries, addressing various climate and renewable energy technologies while dedicating substantial resources to sustainability education each year.
