International Fertilizer Association (IFA) Cultivate Challenge 2025 (USD$15,000 Cash Prize Pool)

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Applications are open for International Fertilizer Association (IFA) Cultivate Challenge 2025. The International Fertilizer Association is excited to announce its Cultivate Challenge, a new global startup competition!

This competition seeks to identify and accelerate entrepreneurial talent worldwide, focusing on high-priority topics for the global fertilizer industry. Startups are invited to apply for the 12-month challenge, with successful applicants receiving a comprehensive support package.

About a dozen selected startups will join a 9-month business growth program, featuring:

Direct connections with leading industry corporates, venture capitalists, and investors
The opportunity to pitch at two major international conferences
Exclusive access to a specialized series of industry workshops

Thematic Areas

Energy Efficiency in Ammonia Production: Technologies to halve energy intensity
Novel P Fertilizers and Application: Doubling plant recovery of fertilizer-applied phosphorus
Nutrient Use Efficiency Tracking: Solutions for tracking NUE along the food chain

IFA Cultivate Challenge Benefits

Approximately a dozen selected startups will progress to their finalist cohort, where they will receive:

12-months’ free IFA membership.
Free registration to a selected international showcase event.
Free registration to the IFA Cultivating Tomorrow 2026 Conference.
The opportunity to pitch in the final competition showcase, with a cash prize pool of USD$15,000.
Access to a series of professional workshop sessions hosted by industry specialists.
Access to a priority business profile listing on the IFA Innovation Platform.
The opportunity to develop direct connections with leaders of organizations from across IFA’s global membership, in order to explore opportunities to collaborate.