The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), in collaboration with the Nigeria Climate Innovation Center (NCIC), has launched an exciting initiative to transform Nigeria’s food supply chain tagged The Nigerian Agribusiness Innovation Challenge.
This challenge seeks innovative agritech startups within the 18 to 35 year age bracket with at least one groundbreaking solution/product that seek to address the gaps and challenges along the Food safety and supply chain in Nigeria with the sole objective for the production of food products that are safe, wholesome and fit for consumption.
Founded at the UN in 2002, GAIN is a Swiss-based organization dedicated to combating malnutrition globally. Through this challenge, they aim to:
- Identify and nurture cutting-edge ideas in agribusiness
- Address the growing food demands of Nigeria’s expanding population
- Tackle the pressing issues of climate change in the agricultural sector
As part of GAIN’s Strengthening Nutrition in Priority Staples project, this initiative offers more than just funding. It provides comprehensive support to participating startups, including:
- Technical assistance and training
- Enhanced access to financial services
- Business concept development
The challenge places a special focus on empowering women and youth-led startups, helping them leverage innovation to boost food supply chain efficiency across Nigeria.
Challenge Solution Sectors
GAIN in partnership with NCIC in the Agro Business Innovation Challenge are looking for eligible Agro tech entrepreneurs or startups with at least a tech driven minimum viable product/solution capable of solving Food Supply Chain challenges in line with any one of the themes provided below:
a. Supply Chain Traceability ( Innovations such as blockchain technology, smart sensors, product monitoring, handling conditions and compliance technology.)
b. Last-Mile Distribution Networks. ( technology-enabled distribution networks/platforms to improve access to agricultural inputs and produce)
c. Climate Smart Financing. (Technology or products that offer innovative financing that addresses climate related risks experienced by agricultural producers)
d. Agricultural Productivity and Efficiency. (Technology that Optimizes processing techniques, equipment, and operations to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality and consistency)
e. Post Harvest Loss Management: (Solutions that improve post-harvest handling, storage, processing, and distribution practices)
Eligible agritech startups throughout Nigeria are now invited to submit their applications and be part of this transformative movement in the country’s agricultural landscape.
