Innovate for Impact Challenge 2026

Unveiled at the 2024 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, the Innovate for Impact Challenge invites forward-thinking entrepreneurs from around the globe to present breakthrough technologies aimed at revolutionizing agriculture. This initiative aligns with the World Food Prize Foundation’s mission to elevate innovations and inspire action toward alleviating global hunger.

Eligibility Criteria

• The Challenge is open to early-stage, for-profit startups in the AgTech space. Eligible companies must meet the following requirements:
• Be in early stages of development, from validated concepts to pre-Series A funding
• Have at least one founder working full-time on the project
• Demonstrate innovation, market potential and alignment with sustainability goals

Startups will be evaluated on:

• Innovation Impact: The novelty and significance of the solution
• Market Potential: Viability and demand within the agricultural industry
• Sustainability Contribution: Alignment with environmental and social goals
• Scalability and Replicability: Ability to expand and adapt across diverse contexts

Prizes and Recognition

The top three finalists will receive:

• 1st Place: $50,000
• 2nd Place: $10,000
• 3rd Place: $5,000

All finalists will gain:

• Unmatchable global exposure by presenting their solutions at the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, which anticipates a gathering of over 1,500 food and agricultural leaders from more than 70 countries
• Unique opportunities to engage with investors, industry experts, fellow entrepreneurs, policymakers and potential partners from around the world

Innovate for Impact Challenge 2026