World Food Forum (WFF) Startup Innovation Awards ($80k Grants)

The World Food Forum (WFF) Startup Innovation Awards 2025, powered by Extreme Tech Challenge (XTC), is a global competition spotlighting youth-led startups leveraging technology to transform agrifood systems. Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this initiative seeks innovative solutions to combat global hunger and promote sustainable food systems.

Features of the Program

The 2025 awards focus on four key categories:

1. Digital Innovation in Food Processing: Recognizing startups enhancing sustainability and efficiency in food processing through digital technologies.
2. Equitable and Sustainable Nutrition: Celebrating innovations that ensure access to nutritious, sustainable food for all.
3. Enhancing Climate Resilience and Water Security: Honoring solutions addressing climate change and water scarcity challenges.
4. Driving Innovation in Agrifood Systems: Highlighting digital innovations improving the sustainability and resilience of agrifood systems.

Additionally, special recognitions include the “Startup of the Year Award 2025” for the most outstanding startup across all categories and the “Fighting Malnutrition and Enhancing Food Security Prize” by MassChallenge Switzerland.

Eligibility Criteria

The competition is open to youth-led startups with at least one founder or C-level executive aged between 18 and 35 at the time of application.

Benefits

Participants stand to gain:

• Financial and In-Kind Support: Over USD 80,000 in combined financial and in-kind contributions.
• Global Exposure: Opportunities to pitch innovations to a panel of agrifood system experts and global leaders.
• Networking: Access to a global platform connecting with investors, governments, and organizations committed to sustainability.
• Resources and Opportunities: Support to enhance and scale solutions, including mentorship and partnership opportunities.
• Event Participation: Invitation to the WFF flagship event in Rome, Italy, with travel support provided.

Application Process

• Application Deadline: 22 May 2025

For more information and to apply, visit the official WFF Startup Innovation Awards page.

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