The World Food Prize Foundation, in collaboration with America’s Cultivation Corridor, presents the Innovate for Impact Challenge—an ambitious global initiative designed to accelerate agricultural technology (AgTech) innovation. This pioneering competition identifies and supports early-stage, tech-driven startups whose solutions address critical challenges in global food security and sustainability. About the Challenge Launched at the 2024 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, the Innovate for Impact Challenge invites visionary entrepreneurs from around the world to showcase breakthrough technologies capable of transforming agriculture. The initiative reflects the Foundation’s mission to elevate innovation, inspire action, and advance solutions that alleviate hunger and strengthen global food systems. Key Highlights Global Call for Startups: Open to early-stage AgTech startups worldwide Live Pitch Event: Finalists present at the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue Top Prize: $50,000 awarded to the winning startup Global Exposure: Opportunity to present before 1,500+ food and agriculture leaders from over 70 countries Timeline and Application Process Submission Deadline: April 15, 2026 Top 10 Announced: July 16, 2026 Top 10 must submit pitch videos and financial statements Virtual Public Voting: July 16–25, 2026 Top 3 Announced: August 5, 2026 Finalists must travel to Des Moines, Iowa Final Competition: October 20–22, 2026 at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines This structured, multi-phase process builds momentum, public engagement, and investor visibility leading up to the final live pitch. Eligibility Criteria The Challenge is open to early-stage, for-profit AgTech startups that: Are in development stages ranging from validated concept to pre-Series A funding Have at least one founder working full-time on the venture Demonstrate innovation, market potential, and alignment with sustainability goals Evaluation Criteria Startups will be assessed based on: Innovation Impact: Originality and transformative potential Market Potential: Commercial viability and industry demand Sustainability Contribution: Environmental and social alignment Scalability & Replicability: Ability to expand across markets and geographies A panel of expert judges will review submissions and evaluate live pitches to determine first, second, and third place winners. Prizes and Recognition Top Three Finalists Receive: 1st Place: $50,000 2nd Place: $10,000 3rd Place: $5,000 All finalists gain: High-profile presentation opportunities at the Borlaug Dialogue Direct engagement with investors, policymakers, and global industry leaders Networking access to entrepreneurs, experts, and strategic partners The Challenge is supported by Pivot Bio. Why It Matters Agricultural innovation is central to feeding a growing global population while protecting environmental systems. The Innovate for Impact Challenge positions emerging startups at the forefront of sustainable transformation, connecting bold ideas with capital, networks, and global recognition. As articulated by the Foundation’s leadership, innovation remains the cornerstone of addressing today’s agricultural challenges and ensuring a resilient future for global food systems. Startups ready to scale impact-driven AgTech solutions are encouraged to apply and become part of a global movement shaping the future of food. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the prize funding. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.