Deadline: April 15, 2026
The Innovate for Impact Challenge: Driving AgTech Innovation is a global opportunity designed to accelerate early-stage agricultural technology (AgTech) startups that are developing innovative solutions to improve food security, sustainability, and agricultural productivity worldwide.
Led by reputable global agriculture stakeholders, this challenge provides promising AgTech ventures with funding, visibility, and access to influential industry leaders, investors, and policymakers.
About the Innovate for Impact Challenge: Driving AgTech Innovation
The Innovate for Impact Challenge: Driving AgTech Innovation focuses on identifying and supporting groundbreaking AgTech innovations that address critical challenges across global food systems.
Selected startups will gain the opportunity to showcase their solutions on a global stage, contributing to sustainable agriculture and long-term food security.
The challenge culminates in a live pitch competition held during the Borlaug Dialogue, one of the world’s most influential agricultural and food security forums.
Programme Format and Global Exposure
Finalist startups will:
- Participate in a live pitch competition
- Present their innovations at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa
- Engage with a global audience of:
- Investors
- Agricultural leaders
- Policymakers
- Researchers
- Development partners
This exposure provides a unique platform to build strategic partnerships and attract investment.
Key Dates and Timeline
- Application Deadline: 15 April 2026
- Top 10 Finalists Announced: Mid-July 2026
- Final Pitch Competition: October 2026 (during the Borlaug Dialogue)
Applicants are encouraged to submit early to ensure full consideration.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The challenge is open to for-profit AgTech startups worldwide that meet the following criteria:
- Operate within the agricultural technology sector
- Are at an early stage (from concept to pre-Series A)
- Have at least one founder working full-time on the venture
- Demonstrate a clear potential for impact, scalability, and commercial viability
There are no geographical restrictions, making this a truly global opportunity.
Focus Areas and Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed based on:
1. Innovation and Impact
- Novelty of the technology
- Relevance to real-world agricultural challenges
2. Market Potential
- Commercial viability
- Market demand and customer adoption
3. Sustainability Contribution
- Environmental sustainability
- Social and economic benefits
4. Scalability and Replicability
- Ability to scale across regions
- Potential for global or regional replication
Prizes and Benefits
Winning and finalist startups will receive both financial and non-financial benefits:
- 🥇 First Place: USD 50,000
- 🥈 Second Place: USD 10,000
- 🥉 Third Place: USD 5,000
Additional benefits include:
- Global visibility at a premier agriculture event
- Networking with investors and industry leaders
- Potential partnerships and follow-on opportunities
Why Apply for This Challenge?
The Innovate for Impact Challenge: Driving AgTech Innovation is more than a competition. It is a launchpad for startups seeking to:
- Scale innovative AgTech solutions
- Gain international recognition
- Access high-level mentorship and investor networks
- Contribute meaningfully to global food security
Need Support with Your Application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review to strengthen your application and improve your chances of success.
