Are you an entrepreneur with a solution that tackles hunger, improves food security, and strengthens food systems? Apply for the IGNITE Food Systems Challenge from the World Food Program (WFP) Rwanda by 6 February 2022!
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and Impact Hub Kigali (IHK) seek to support innovative entrepreneurs through the IGNITE Food Systems Challenge. Through the Challenge, WFP Rwanda is looking for entrepreneurs with solutions that tackle hunger, improve food security, and strengthen food systems. This Challenge is supported by the USAID Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs (BHA) and the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The inaugural IGNITE Food Systems Challenge will support Rwandan startups, SMEs and cooperatives to scale up their solutions, contributing to the economy while creating a positive social impact by addressing different gaps that exist in food systems. Successful applicants stand to benefit from USD 50,000 in equity-free funding and six months of technical support to strengthen entrepreneurial skills with support from experts and mentors. Additionally, successful applicants will also get an opportunity to network with WFP’s network of public, private, and government partners.
Interested applicants must fulfil the following criteria to apply:
- Possess a valid registration/certificate of incorporation for operating in Rwanda
- Have proof of a revenue-generating business (total turnover in the case of cooperatives) of at least the equivalent of 5,000 USD for the year 2020-21
- Have a team of at least three full-time employees dedicated to the SME/cooperative, including the founding team
- Have at least 50% of its founding and senior management team from Rwanda/East Africa
- Have key operations in Rwanda
Note: Ventures that are women-led and have demonstrated action towards promoting women in their supply chain are encouraged to apply.
Interested applicants should apply by 6 February 2022.
For more information about the Challenge, visit: IGNITE Food Systems Challenge