Deadline: In progress
Applications are now open for the WFP Innovation Challenge: Relief and Resilience 2024 They launched the latest World Food Programme (WFP) Innovation Challenge in search of groundbreaking innovations that offer relief, promote resilience and end hunger.
More than 828 million people – more than one in ten of the world's population – still go to bed hungry every night. The number of people facing acute food insecurity has reached a record 333 million. Meanwhile, the cost of providing food assistance has reached unprecedented levels due to rising food and fuel prices. The combination of increased food and transport costs, compounded by the economic consequences of the pandemic, climate change, and the conflict in Ukraine, has made food inaccessible to millions of people, placing significant pressure on WFP operations.
This edition of the WFP Innovation Challenge seeks to identify and support disruptive social innovations that address key challenges in the fight against hunger. They are particularly interested in solutions for humanitarian assistance and supply chain resilience, as they aim to ensure that every donor dollar goes further in combating hunger, while reducing the need for ration cuts.
Benefits
- Apply to receive up to US$$ 100,000 in equity-free funding, with additional funding contingent on progress and measurable achievement of key milestones.
- Successful teams will work with WFP's global network of partners and field operations in over 120 countries and territories; teams may also qualify for further funding and support if they are scaling up innovations that have proven their concepts and value for social impact.
- You will have the opportunity to work with technical and industry mentors who will provide guidance and accelerate your progress. Selected social innovations will participate in a three- to five-day WFP Innovation Bootcamp and Pitch Event.
- Teams will be able to leverage and take advantage of the strong network of public, private, and governmental partners to accelerate implementation.
Eligibility
If you are a startup…
- Your startup must be incorporated at the time of registration. It can be for-profit or non-profit.
- Your innovation must be at least at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage. Proof of concept and initial traction are preferred.
- Your solution must be financially viable.
- Your proposal should show how working with the WFP will serve your long-term strategy.
If you are a WFP employee…
- Your team must have proof of support from the National Office and buy-in from management.
- You are encouraged to apply, regardless of the type of contract or role.
- They accept applications from WFP employees who collaborate with NGOs, government, or the private sector.
Application
