Fao and Zheijian University Global AgriInno Challenge 2024 Open Call

 Inclusive AI and Emerging Technologies for Agrifood Systems Transformation 

Duration of the Call: 21 June – 1 August 2024 

Are you passionate about addressing challenges in the digital agriculture field? Are you eager to showcase your groundbreaking ideas to the world? Do you aspire to engage with a diverse mentorship network supported by UN agencies, governments, leading investors, and academic experts? The Global AgriInno Challenge (GAC) 2024 is officially open for proposal submissions!

As a global platform for youth agripreneurs and innovators, the Global AgriInno Challenge continues to showcase and foster cutting-edge digital agricultural talent. Following the success of our previous editions from 2020 to 2022, we are happy to announce that the 2024 Challenge will once again provide a vibrant platform for startups to exchange ideas, enrich their knowledge, and establish valuable connections with a global network of collaborators. 

The theme of GAC 2024 is “Inclusive AI and Emerging Technologies for Agrifood Systems Transformation.” Six teams will be selected to participate in the final pitch event, scheduled to take place in China on 26 September 2024, with all related expenses covered. The top teams will be awarded seed funding to further their innovation ventures and will have the chance to present at the FAO Science and Innovation Forum 2024. This year, GAC aims to identify, accelerate, and scale up youth-led innovative business models and solutions for agrifood system issues, aligning with SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).  

The challenge aims to: - Transform rural development through innovative and digital solutions; Share the latest information, knowledge, and best practices in rural digital transformation innovations; Build an enabling environment through Public-Private Partnerships and co-creation opportunities; Engage and empower young agripreneurs and innovators through FAO and partners’ global networks with continuous support during and after the innovation challenge. 

Selected teams will benefit from: - Two-day technical support through co-creation with other agripreneurs and experts; Coverage of all expenses for attending the Innovation for Good and pitch events in China; The chance to pitch and showcase solutions at the FAO Science and Innovation Forum 2024; Advice from experienced experts and dialogues with high-level representatives; Market linkage with angel investors and business leaders in the agrifood sector; Global networking opportunities;  Seed funding for top winning teams and Becoming an alumnus of the Global AgriInno Challenge. 

Who Can Apply? GAC 2024 is open to youth developing and deploying digital innovation products and services that can accelerate agrifood systems transformation.  

Selection Criteria - The team must be registered as a company or legal entity.- Have less than USD 1 million in turnover.- Have less than 5 years of operations.- Have an innovative, technology-based solution or business model with a TRL between 7 and 9.- Be committed to continuous engagement throughout the program.- At least one team leader must be below 35 years old (teams with female agripreneurs are highly encouraged). 

Languages English and Chinese are the working languages for the Global AgriInno Challenge 2024. All proposals and presentations must be conducted in English. 

How to Apply Fill in the application form and submit it by 1 August 2024 (24:00 CEST).  

Be part of the agrifood systems transformation journey. Apply now!