Moonshots for Development Open Innovation Challenge 2026

About

An open innovation challenge inviting startups to develop solutions that enhance agricultural resilience and empower rural communities, with significant funding and mentorship opportunities available across multiple phases of the program.

Benefits

• 💰Funding Opportunities
  Up to $360,000 in total funding available across different phases of the challenge.
• 🎓Mentorship Program
  Personalized mentorship during the Phase 0 bootcamp to develop business models.
• 🏢Pilot Support
  Comprehensive support for pilot implementation in later phases.
• 🌐Network Access
  Exclusive access to M4D’s resources and networks for collaboration and growth.
• 📈Business Development
  Bespoke coaching tailored to the unique needs of each startup.
• 🎤Exposure Opportunities
  Finalists have the chance to scale their enterprises significantly with additional funding.

Eligibility Criteria

• Open to startups focused on agricultural innovations
• Must address the needs of smallholder farmers and rural communities
• Solutions should align with one of the four challenge tracks: Insurance, Agroecology, Digital Extension, or Fragility
• Innovations must demonstrate potential for scalability and impact
• Teams must be able to engage with end-users effectively, considering local contexts.

Participation Commitments

• Must participate in a virtual bootcamp during Phase 0
• Teams must progress through multiple phases to secure funding
• Must demonstrate engagement with rural communities and smallholder farmers
• Commit to developing solutions that are contextually appropriate and scalable.

Target Sector

Agriculture and Technology Innovation

Target Location

Global