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Applications are open for the FAO Global AgriInno Challenge 2026, an international competition supporting startups, researchers, and innovation teams developing technology-driven solutions for sustainable agrifood systems.
The challenge is jointly organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Zhejiang University, and Pinduoduo. This year’s edition focuses on Small Island Developing States, where climate change, food insecurity, and limited agricultural infrastructure are major concerns.
Organizers are seeking scalable, technology-enabled innovations that improve food production, nutrition, environmental resilience, and rural livelihoods. Selected finalists will receive full travel support, visa assistance, mentorship, investor matchmaking, and global visibility.
Benefits include participation in the Global Final Event in Hangzhou, China, and a showcase at the FAO Science and Innovation Forum in Rome. Top winners may access seed funding and join a Digital Agriculture Innovation Bootcamp in China.
Applicants must present solutions under four pillars: Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment, and Better Life. Eligible participants include startups, agripreneurs, and research teams with technology-based solutions at advanced development stages, annual turnover below $1 million, and at least one team leader under 35. Women-led teams are encouraged to apply.
Read Also: FAO Opens Applications for 2026 Internship Programme
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Applications opened on May 19, 2026, and close on June 18, 2026. Finalists will be announced on July 2, with the global final scheduled for August in Hangzhou. The FAO showcase will run from October 12 to 16 in Rome.
The challenge aims to connect youth-led innovators with investors, policymakers, and researchers to scale solutions in agritech, climate-smart agriculture, aquaculture, and food systems.
Interested applicants can apply through the official FAO portal.
