African startups are invited to apply for the Moonshots for Development Open Innovation Challenge 2026, which offers potential funding of up to US$360,000.
The Moonshots for Development Open Innovation Challenge is powered by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the IDB Lab, the CGIAR Accelerate for Impact Platform (A4IP), the European Space Agency (ESA), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the International Innovation Hub (IIH) and the European Institute of Innovation for Sustainability (EIIS).
The challenge is looking for solutions that build resilient food systems across four challenge tracks – insurance, agroecology, digital extension, and fragility, with particular interest in solutions that use AI and geospatial analysis to create positive impact for smallholder farmers and/or rural communities.
The programme offers up to US$360,000 in funding and support to teams, and paves the way for groundbreaking success. It begins with the virtual bootcamp, before selected teams progress to phase one, where startups can secure up to US$10,000. This phase offers bespoke coaching tailored to your unique business needs, with exclusive access to M4D’s invaluable resources and networks.
Top teams advance to phase two, with up to US$100,000 in funding, along with comprehensive pilot and implementation support, while finalists in phase three have the potential to earn up to US$250,000 and receive unparalleled support to scale your enterprise to new heights.
Applications are open here until March 30.
