The WFF Startup Innovation Awards, powered by Extreme Tech Challenge (XTC) is a global competition showcasing entrepreneurs who are using the power of technology to transform agrifood systems to end global hunger and achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Made possible through a strategic partnership with XTC, the world’s leading platform for fostering collaboration and innovation among startups, corporations and governments to address global challenges stemming from the SDGs, the Startup Innovation Awards spotlight the next generation of innovators developing solutions for a sustainable future. Over USD 80 000 in financial and in-kind contributions are offered to the winners.
Through the Startup Innovation Awards, we are seeking to identify, elevate and accelerate the youth-led startups who show the greatest potential for a positive impact to transform agrifood systems across the four categories for 2025.
Benefits
- Pitch your innovation to an expert panel of agrifood systems specialists and global leaders.
- Elevate your startup through a global platform, with visibility to investors, governments and organizations committed to sustainability.
- Access resources and opportunities to enhance and scale your solution.
- Win prizes up to USD 80 000 including financial and in-kind awards to fuel your growth. Travel support to attend the WFF flagship event in Rome, Italy is also provided.
- Ongoing access to two global communities to enhance and scale your solution; continuing engagement with FAO and Extreme Tech Challenge Ecosystems.
Application Timeline:
- 22 May 2025: Application deadline
- Submit your application to be considered for the competition.
- 30 June 2025: Semi-finalists notification
- Semi-finalists will be notified, marking the beginning of an exciting journey toward the finals.
- 24 July 2025: Finalist selection & invitation to the WFF flagship event
- Finalists will be selected and officially invited to showcase their innovations at the WFF flagship event.
- 15 October 2025: SIA Finals at FAO headquarters, Rome, Italy
- The grand finale will take place at the WFF flagship event happening from 13 – 17 October, at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.
Click Here to Apply
