World Food Prize Foundation Announces $50,000 Innovate for Impact Challenge

The World Food Prize Foundation, in collaboration with America’s Cultivation Corridor, announced the launch of the Innovate for Impact Challenge, an initiative designed to accelerate innovation in agricultural technology (AgTech). The challenge is aimed at identifying and supporting early-stage, tech-driven startups whose solutions hold the potential to revolutionize agriculture and address the most pressing issues of global food security.

Launched at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, the Innovate for Impact Challenge invites entrepreneurs to present breakthrough technologies that can improve agricultural productivity and sustainability. Startups from across the globe are encouraged to apply, with special attention to those aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the foundation’s mission to combat hunger.

During the 2025 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, the top three finalists of the Innovate for Impact Challenge will have the opportunity to pitch their AgTech solutions live on stage in front of a global audience of industry leaders, investors and policymakers. This event will showcase their innovative technologies, offering visibility and the chance to secure critical support. Following the presentations, the judges will announce the winners, with the top startup receiving a $50,000 prize to accelerate its impact on global food security.

ELIGIBLE COMPANIES. The challenge is open to for-profit startups that are in their early stages — from validated concepts to pre-Series A funding. At least one founder must be working full-time on the project. Companies will be judged on their innovation impact, market potential, contribution to sustainability, performance, scalability and replicability — criteria that underscore the World Food Prize Foundation’s commitment to supporting transformative solutions.

PRIZES AND RECOGNITION. The three most promising startups will be awarded financial support, with $50,000 for first place, $10,000 for second place and $5,000 for third place.

JUDGING PANEL. The World Food Prize Foundation announced two of the five judges for the Innovate for Impact Challenge:

• Han Chen, an expert in sustainable innovation and technology, brings years of experience driving change in AgTech and food systems.
• Lazarus Lynch, author, chef and two-time champion of Food Network's “Chopped,” is known for his passion for food equity and advocacy for diverse, inclusive solutions to food security challenges.

These judges will help select the top 10 finalists.

APPLICATION PROCESS. The Innovate for Impact Challenge will begin accepting applications in February 2025, with submissions closing in April 2025. Finalists will be announced in June, and the top three will be invited to Des Moines for the final competition in October 2025.

“Innovation is the key to solving today’s agricultural challenges and securing a sustainable future for global food systems,” said Mashal Husain, chief operating officer, World Food Prize Foundation. “By empowering startups to break new ground, we are cultivating the next generation of visionaries who will help feed the world and protect our planet.”