The World Food Prize Foundation has opened applications for the Innovate for Impact Challenge, a global, early-stage AgTech innovation competition that supports startups developing technology-driven solutions to advance food security, sustainability, and agricultural transformation worldwide.
About the Challenge
The Innovate for Impact Challenge identifies and accelerates early-stage, for-profit startups whose technologies have the potential to transform agriculture, improve productivity, enhance sustainability, and strengthen food systems globally. Applications are welcome from founders across the world, with evaluation focused on innovation, market potential, sustainability impact, and scalability.
Who Should Apply (Eligibility)
To be eligible for the Innovate for Impact Challenge, startups must:
✔ Be an early-stage, for-profit company (from concept validation to pre-Series A funding)
✔ Have at least one founder working full-time on the project
✔ Develop technology-based solutions addressing agricultural challenges, food security, sustainability, or related gaps
✔ Demonstrate innovation, market viability, and sustainability alignment
Startups are evaluated based on innovation impact, market potential, environmental and social contribution, and the ability to scale across diverse contexts.
Benefits & Prizes
Cash Awards
Participants compete for significant cash prizes to accelerate their ventures:
1st Place: USD $50,000
2nd Place: USD $10,000
3rd Place: USD $5,000
Global Exposure
Finalists gain unmatched visibility by presenting their solutions at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue — one of agriculture’s premier global events, attended by leaders, investors, policymakers, and innovators.
Networking & Partnerships
Finalists and winners connect with industry experts, investors, policymakers, and potential partners, creating pathways for future support, collaboration, and scaling.
Timeline (2026 Edition)
Applications Open: January 21, 2026
Submission Deadline: April 15, 2026
Top 10 Finalists Announced: July 16, 2026
Virtual Public Voting: July 16–25, 2026
Top 3 Announced: August 5, 2026
Live Final Pitch: October 20–22, 2026 at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, USA
Finalists are typically required to submit pitch videos and key financials as part of the selection process.
