Agri Innovation Challenge – Nepal

“Agri Innovation Challenge” is a program focused on encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth. The Agri Innovation Challenge, which is being jointly organized by the United Nations Development Program and the Youth Innovation Lab, aims to encourage young entrepreneurs in the early and/or progressive stages in the agri-food sector.

This program will conduct a three-day comprehensive residential bootcamp in Kathmandu with the aim of empowering young agricultural entrepreneurs from all seven provinces of Nepal. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in sessions with innovation experts, explore innovative agricultural technologies, and deepen their understanding of the national agricultural environment and food security issues. The program focuses on capacity building and the Business Model Canvas framework will be used to enhance the skills of the participants and effectively scale their agricultural enterprises.

Benefits from the program

• Residential Bootcamp and Networking
  • An opportunity to learn and explore innovative agricultural technologies with key stakeholders participating in the three-day program to be held in Kathmandu.
• Award
  • The top three startups will be awarded a cash prize of Rs. 100,000 (literally Rs.one lakh only) for their innovative solutions and their potential impact.
• Mentorship
  • The winning startups will be provided learning opportunities through Springboard Plus Pre-Accelerator programs through expert advice, mentoring and capacity-building sessions.

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship and Age: Nepalese citizens between 18 and 31 years of age.
• Subject areas: They invite startups from agri-food sectors including agriculture, food processing, agro-technology, supply chain management, organic and sustainable agriculture.
• Business Registration: Only startups officially registered on or after July 2022 will be eligible for this innovation challenge.
• Group composition: Each participating startup should be represented by two members including at least one female representative. Gender equality and social inclusion will be given high priority in the selection process.
• Objective: Potential candidates for this program are young entrepreneurs who are committed to addressing challenges in the agricultural sector and developing meaningful solutions. Applicants must demonstrate a willingness to actively learn with other entrepreneurs, industry experts, and stakeholders to foster innovation within the agri-food sector.
• Geographical Diversity: They aim to include innovative and sustainable businesses from all provinces to ensure and encourage diversity and inclusion in participation.
• Eligibility: Participants will have to attend the 3-day bootcamp to be organized in Kathmandu from July 15 to 17, 2024 (June 31 to July 2, 2081).
• Youth-led startups from tribal youth, women, gender and sexual minority communities, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized communities are encouraged to apply. Startups from all seven provinces of Nepal will be able to apply.

For more information, visit Youth Innovation Lab.