UN WFP Innovation Challenge 2021 Launched For African Startups

African startups can now apply for the World Food Programme (WFP) Innovation Challenge 2021. Launched by the United Nations., the challenge will support and scale up innovators with solutions that will end global hunger, achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal Two.

This year’s WFP Innovation Challenge is on the lookout for disruptive innovations that can fight hunger, provide access to safe and nutritious food and advance equitable livelihoods for all.

The WFP Innovation Challenge 2021 aims to deploy game-changing ideas to build stronger, more sustainable food systems addressing hunger, and in preparation for the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit.

The initiative is leveraging transformation in digital innovation, including artificial intelligence, big data, blockchain, and mobile technology—and new business models to redefine the ways of serving vulnerable communities worldwide.

Selected finalists will receive equity-free funding of up to $100,000, technical support, and access to WFP’s global operations. Selected teams will be invited to participate in a fully virtual WFP Innovation Bootcamp on 30 August – 3 September 2021. They stand to receive hands-on support from technical and industry mentors who will guide and help accelerate their progress.

To qualify as a startup, you must be incorporated either as a profit or not-for-profit enterprise at the time of application; innovation must have reached the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage or the solution must be viable showing a long-term strategy.

Applications submitted to the WFP Innovation Accelerator are evaluated based on a standard set of criteria and are reviewed by both WFP and external experts. The interested startup can click here to get more information on the program.