Sixteen projects were awarded yesterday following the National Innovation Competition. In total, 35 applications were received, representing all 24 regions of Madagascar. Organized by the Ministry for the Promotion of Industry and Private Sector Development (MIDSP), in collaboration with the Malagasy Office of Industrial Property (OMAPI), this competition is part of the State's General Policy for Renovation (PGE-R). It aims to transform technological innovations into industrial projects and contribute to the development of the secondary sector. Three Focus Areas The competition was structured around three main axes: energy, agriculture, and product transformation. The energy component specifically targets reducing industrial production costs. The agriculture and food axis seeks to strengthen local added value and food security. Local transformation aims to valorize national raw materials to limit reliance on imports. "This is a national innovation competition focused on three major themes: energy, agriculture, and product transformation," explained the MIDSP secretary general. Among participants, the Improved Reference Stove (FAR) took part in the competition by presenting an artisanal machine. The competition was open to start-ups, researchers, teachers, and entrepreneurs. An accompanying support system is also planned for the protection and valorization of industrial property of selected projects. The initiative also benefits from technical and financial support from international partners, notably UNIDO and PAISF. The trophy presentation to the 16 winning projects marked the completion of this stage of the National Innovation Competition.