The AGCO Agriculture Foundation, based in Stoneleigh, UK, through its grant application platform, Benevity, is inviting applications for its grant program. This Call for Applications seeks to support projects that empower the next generation of agricultural leaders. Nonprofit organizations registered and recognized as charitable under the law are invited to submit grant proposals for amounts ranging from $400K to $450K, disbursed over a three-year project duration.
The Foundation aims to fund initiatives that foster innovative solutions for sustainable agri-food systems, with the overarching goal of preventing and alleviating hunger through sustainable agricultural development. The application window is open from October 1 to November 29, 2024.
The Call for Applications
The AGCO Agriculture Foundation, established by AGCO Corporation in 2018, aims to enhance food security and sustainable agricultural development. Collaborating with nonprofit organizations globally, the Foundation funds holistic, youth-focused programs to improve food and nutrition security, empower future agricultural leaders, and transform food systems. Headquartered in Vaduz, Liechtenstein, and operating in Stoneleigh, UK, more information is available on their website.
Purpose and Objectives
The Foundation seeks grant applications from nonprofit organizations to support youth-led innovations in agri-food systems. This initiative aims to tackle complex challenges in global agri-food systems by fostering ambitious, tech-driven solutions and enhancing youth employment. Proposals should specifically target young innovators and agribusiness startups.
The objectives of the AGCO Agriculture Foundation’s grant program include supporting youth-led innovations for sustainable food systems, addressing the challenges faced by young people in the agri-food sector, and creating a robust support system for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Additionally, the program aims to generate green job opportunities within agricultural value chains and change perceptions of agri-food careers among young people, promoting a more attractive and viable pathway into the industry.
Grant Application Details
The Foundation encourages proposals that address barriers to youth involvement in agri-food systems while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. Programs should focus on areas such as digital agriculture, climate resilience, capacity development, market efficiency, energy integration, and food innovations.
Grant applications are open to nonprofit organizations with a proven track record in agri-food systems and youth engagement. Proposals must focus on individuals aged 18-40, including young innovators and farmers. Grants of up to $450,000 are available for projects with a duration of three years, disbursed in three installments. Proposals should adhere to a budget guideline of 70% for program activities and 30% for administrative costs.
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Eligibility Requirements and Criteria
Eligible organizations must be recognized as charitable or nonprofit entities. The Foundation has announced that it will not provide funding for specific groups or activities, including individual for-profit organizations, political or religious entities, and sports teams. Grant proposals will be evaluated based on innovation, alignment with strategic goals and adherence to financial guidelines. A high volume of applications may limit individual feedback for unsuccessful proposals.
“As we continue to contribute to sustainable food systems, we need to encourage younger innovators to be involved in agriculture. By working with nonprofit partners to establish youth-focused agri-tech programs, we hope to both support and educate younger people who can help develop different solutions for the future, for regenerative agriculture, climate resilience and technology innovations applicable to various agriculture ecosystems.”
This grant program aligns with AGCO’s mission to provide farmer centric solutions and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Foundation acknowledges the role that youth play in enhancing and sustaining agrifood systems and recognizes the potential for the agrifood sector to improve youth employment and livelihoods.