The World Food Prize Foundation, in collaboration with America’s Cultivation Corridor, has launched the Innovate for Impact Challenge, an initiative aimed at advancing innovation in agricultural technology (AgTech). This initiative focuses on identifying and supporting early-stage, tech-driven startups that aim to address pressing issues in global food security through advancements in agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Global Competition for AgTech Startups
The Innovate for Impact Challenge was introduced at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, a significant platform for discussions on global food security. The Challenge invites visionary entrepreneurs from around the world to present innovative technologies that have the potential to enhance food production and sustainability. Startups participating in this competition are encouraged to align their innovations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the World Food Prize Foundation’s mission to combat hunger and food insecurity.
Selected finalists from the competition will present their AgTech solutions at the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue. The top three finalists will pitch their ideas live on stage, where they will address a global audience comprising industry leaders, investors, and policymakers. This high-stakes event is designed to provide these startups with global visibility, valuable feedback from experts, and opportunities to secure critical support for scaling their solutions. Following the presentations, the judges will announce the winners, with the top-performing startup receiving a $50,000 prize to further their contributions to global food security.
Eligibility Requirements and Judging Criteria
The Innovate for Impact Challenge is open to for-profit startups in their early stages, ranging from validated concept phase to pre-Series A funding. To be eligible, at least one of the founders must be fully dedicated to the project on a full-time basis. Participating startups will be evaluated on several criteria, including the potential impact of their innovations, market viability, contributions to sustainability, scalability, replicability, and overall performance. These criteria reflect the World Food Prize Foundation’s commitment to fostering meaningful, sustainable solutions in agriculture.
Prizes and Financial Support for Winners
Financial support will be awarded to the three most promising startups, with $50,000 for the first-place winner, $10,000 for the second-place winner, and $5,000 for the third-place winner. In addition to these prizes, the winners will have the opportunity to present their solutions at the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue, giving them access to global exposure and networking opportunities with influential figures in the AgTech sector, including thought leaders, investors, and policymakers.
Judging Panel for the Challenge
The World Food Prize Foundation has announced two judges for the Innovate for Impact Challenge: Han Chen, an expert in sustainable AgTech and food systems, and Lazarus Lynch, a chef and advocate for food equity. These judges will help evaluate applications and select the top 10 finalists, who will present their innovations.
Timeline and Application Process
The Innovate for Impact Challenge will open for applications in February 2025, with the submission period closing in April. Finalists will be announced in June 2025, and the top three will be invited to Des Moines for the final competition scheduled for October 2025. This timeline offers startups a structured pathway to showcase their ideas on a global stage and gain support for advancing their impact.
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“Innovation is the key to solving today’s agricultural challenges and securing a sustainable future for global food systems. By empowering startups to break new ground, we are cultivating the next generation of visionaries who will help feed the world and protect our planet.”
The Innovate for Impact Challenge stands as a unique opportunity for startups to connect with industry leaders and secure resources needed to make a meaningful difference in global food systems. Through this initiative, the World Food Prize Foundation and America’s Cultivation Corridor aim to support solutions that can help address critical challenges in agriculture and food security worldwide.