The World Food Prize Foundation Innovate for Impact Challenge is a global competition designed to accelerate early-stage AgTech startups addressing food security and sustainability challenges.
Hosted in collaboration with America’s Cultivation Corridor, the Challenge identifies and supports tech-driven startups developing transformative agricultural solutions with strong market potential and measurable impact.
Originally unveiled at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, the initiative aligns with the World Food Prize Foundation’s mission to elevate innovation and inspire action toward ending global hunger.
Who Should Apply?
The Challenge is open to early-stage, for-profit AgTech startups worldwide that are:
- Developing innovative agricultural technologies
- Addressing food security, sustainability, and productivity challenges
- Positioned for growth and scalability
Eligible startups must:
- Be in early stages of development (validated concept to pre-Series A funding)
- Have at least one full-time founder dedicated to the venture
- Demonstrate innovation, clear market potential, and sustainability alignment
Evaluation Criteria
Startups will be assessed based on:
- Innovation Impact: Novelty and significance of the solution
- Market Potential: Commercial viability and industry demand
- Sustainability Contribution: Environmental and social impact alignment
- Scalability & Replicability: Ability to expand across regions and markets
Prize Pool ($65,000 Total)
The top three finalists will receive:
- 🥇 1st Place: $50,000
- 🥈 2nd Place: $10,000
- 🥉 3rd Place: $5,000
Beyond the cash prizes, finalists gain significant international exposure and investor access.
Global Exposure & Live Pitch Opportunity
All finalists will:
- Present their solutions at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa
- Engage with over 1,500 global food and agriculture leaders from 70+ countries
- Connect with investors, policymakers, industry experts, and potential partners
The live pitch event represents a rare opportunity to showcase your startup on one of the most respected stages in global agriculture.
ALSO APPLY FOR:
Leventis Foundation One-Year Training Programme 2026 in Modern and Sustainable Agriculture (Fully Funded)
Application Timeline
- April 15, 2026: Submission deadline
- July 16, 2026: Top 10 announced
- July 16–25, 2026: Virtual public voting
- August 5, 2026: Top 3 finalists announced
- October 20–22, 2026: Final competition at the Borlaug Dialogue (Des Moines, Iowa)
Top 10 startups must submit pitch videos and financial statements. The top 3 finalists must have a representative travel to Des Moines for the live pitch event.
Why Apply?
The Innovate for Impact Challenge offers:
- Non-dilutive funding
- Global credibility
- Investor visibility
- Access to world-class agricultural leaders
- Opportunity to scale impact in food security
For early-stage AgTech startups, this is a powerful platform to accelerate growth and international recognition.
How to Apply
Eligible startups must submit their applications through the official World Food Prize Foundation portal before the deadline.
Apply for the World Food Prize Foundation Innovate for Impact Challenge
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