2021 Agrobiodiversity Innovation Challenge

Innovators who aim to mainstream agrobiodiversity solutions into the agri-food sector are welcome to submit applications to the Agrobiodiversity Innovation Challenge.

The challenge seeks to support innovators who are working on new products, services, and best practices that utilize agrobiodiversity to transform food systems. It will convene the top innovations that are helping to use, conserve and consume agrobiodiversity in ways that are kinder to people and the environment.

The competition is being held in conjunction with the 2nd International Agrobiodiversity Congress, 15-18 November 2021. The free, global virtual event will bring together farmers, technical experts, policymakers, and business leaders from around the world to discuss and advance agrobiodiversity. 

The challenge is open to individual founders, private companies, and institutions. Submissions should help address challenges in different interest areas. Submissions will be accepted until 30 September 2021.

Selected innovations will be awarded cash prizes, mentoring, and partnerships opportunities. Successful innovations will have the opportunity to pitch their solutions to IFAD’s country teams.

The Second Agrobiodiversity Congress is organized by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, with the support of the Italian Government and in partnership with CIHEAM Bari, IFAD, the Italian Institute of Technology, the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture Business Incubation Platform, Rockstart, and The Lexicon. IFAD is leading the Innovation Challenge and will fund winning solutions.

More information and how to apply