Press and News The CircularEconomy4Ghana Innovation Challenge is now open for applications
What if the future of Ghana’s food security could be shaped by circular economy? The CircularEconomy4Ghana Innovation Challenge is officially launching its call for applications for startups and innovators in the agritech and circular economy sectors.
Led by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT through the Accelerate for Impact Platform (A4IP) and implemented in partnerships with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) / ITPO and E4Impact, the initiative is designed to support novel technologies that strengthen the circular economy, enhance food security, and build long-term resilience within Ghana’s agricultural sector.
Discover and apply to the CircularEconomy4Ghana Innovation Challenge
Selected candidates will get the chance to refine, test, and scale their agri-tech solution in one of West Africa’s most dynamic ecosystems.
Through the program, they will receive hands-on tools and step-by-step support to build a solid go-to-market strategy, validate their technology, and access real market opportunities.
What's in for the selected innovators
- A deep understanding of Ghana’s agriculture
- A fully funded, 4-day immersive bootcamp in Accra, Ghana
- Strategic connects with agribusinesses and ecosystem partners
- Expert guidance from CGIAR scientists and UNIDO experts
- Opportunities to meet investors and commercial partners
- A 3-month sponsored accelerator program, structured around five pillars, combining entrepreneurial training, technical assistance, and more. Each pillar includes a two-day in-person bootcamp, followed by a presentation to stakeholders and investors, as well as a two-week remote learning phase.
Who can apply?
We are on the look-out for early-stage agri-tech innovations with a working Minimum Viable Product (MVP), ideally already tested with end-users. Teams should be actively fundraising at the pre-seed or seed stage. Solutions must address real market needs, respond to local agricultural challenges, align with at least one of the designated priority areas, and deliver tangible benefits to smallholder farmers and value chain actors.
Discover the priority areas
- Innovative Financing and Financial Access for Circular Agri-Enterprices
- Digital Advisory and Knowledge-Sharing Systems for Circular Agriculture
- Waste Segregation, Collection, and Valorization Systems
- Nutrient Recovery and Circular Soil Fertility Solutions
- Traceability, Data, and Supply Chain Efficiency for Circular Value Chains
- Inclusive Circular Business Models for Youth and Women
If you are working on an early-stage agritech innovation that fits the program's scope, apply now to join the CircularEconomy4Ghana Innovation Challenge!
- For questions, email us at [email protected]
- Follow-us on LinkedIn: CGIAR Accelerate for Impact Platform
