UN FAO Global AgriInno Challenge 2025 for Youth Innovators and Agri-tech Entrepreneurs (Up To $30k Seed Funding)

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Applications are open for UN FAO Global AgriInno Challenge 2025. Join a global movement of youth innovators and agri-tech entrepreneurs driving change in food and farming. The winners will have an opportunity to pitch their innovations at the Science and Innovation Forum in Rome in October 2025.

They are bringing together global youth innovators, agri-tech entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to develop cutting-edge digital solutions that drive climate resilience, supply chain efficiency, and nutritional security in agrifood systems. Through this initiative, we aim to advance inclusive, sustainable innovation aligned with the SDGs—particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). By fostering collaboration and scaling impactful innovations, we bridge the digital, gender, and rural divides.

Global AgriInno Challenge Theme:

Harnessing emerging technologies and Digital Public Infrastructure for sustainable agrifood systems: Advancing climate resilience, supply chain efficiency, and nutritional security.

Global AgriInno Challenge Goals

Spotlight and scale up the most promising, technology-driven solutions for agrifood system challenges
Co-create innovations that are practical, inclusive, and locally relevant
Connect global innovators with mentors, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders
Prepare winning teams to pitch at global events like the FAO Science and Innovation Forum 2025

Benefits

Mentorship
- 48-hour co-creation bootcamp with global mentors
- Expert coaching from UN agencies, investors, and private sector leaders
Seed Funding
- Chance to showcase your solution on a global stage
- Up to 30k dollars Seed funding for winning teams
Recognition
- Chance to showcase your solution on a global stage
- All travel, visa, lodging, and meals covered for finalists attending in China
Networking
- Access to the Global AgriInno Challenge alumni network
- Build relationships with agencies, venture capitalists, industry leaders, and fellow innovators

Selection Criteria:

Innovation: Solutions should demonstrate strong alignment with the challenge theme, offer original use of emerging technologies, and be accessible and inclusive to smallholder farmers and marginalized groups.
Market Potential & Economic Value: Projects will be assessed on their potential for market entry, scalability, profitability, and ability to generate economic opportunities such as employment or investment.
Social, Environmental Impact & Sustainability: Ideas must show how they will improve livelihoods, promote sustainability, reduce food loss or pollution, and contribute to climate resilience and social inclusion.
Project Team: Teams will be evaluated on their operational capacity, relevant experience, technical skills, and commitment to diversity and gender equity.