Moonshots for Development (M4D) Open Innovation Challenge

The Moonshots for Development (M4D) Open Innovation Challenge is now open for growth-stage enterprises developing innovative solutions to support smallholder farmers, rural communities, and indigenous populations.

This global initiative is powered by leading international organisations including:

• International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
• Asian Development Bank (ADB)
• IDB Lab
• CGIAR Accelerate for Impact Platform (A4IP)
• European Space Agency (ESA)
• European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
• International Innovation Hub (IIH)
• European Institute of Innovation for Sustainability (EIIS)

The challenge seeks impact-driven solutions that help build resilient food systems and strengthen rural livelihoods globally.

Funding & Support

Selected innovators will receive phased funding and support:

Phase 0

• Virtual bootcamp (May 2026)
• Business model development support
• One month tailored mentorship

Phase 1

• Up to $10,000 USD
• Coaching and business development support

Phase 2

• Up to $100,000 USD
• Pilot and implementation support

Phase 3

• Up to $250,000 USD
• Scaling support and additional resources

Participants may also receive technical and financial support from M4D Alliance partners.

Challenge Tracks

Track 1: Insurance Solutions

• Climate insurance
• Crop & livestock insurance
• Digital insurance platforms
• Risk management tools

Track 2: Reducing Fragility

• Conflict-sensitive solutions
• Community resilience tools
• Governance strengthening
• Crisis and shock mitigation

Track 3: Digital Extension

• Advisory platforms
• Decision-support systems
• Digital agriculture tools
• Service delivery innovations

Track 4: Agroecology

• Bio-inputs & soil restoration
• Sustainable farming solutions
• Circular agriculture
• Climate-resilient production systems

Cross-Cutting Themes

The challenge particularly encourages solutions using:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Geospatial Analysis
• Remote Sensing
• Data-driven decision tools

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be legally registered organisations
• Have a validated business model
• Have a working product/service deployed
• Demonstrate impact for smallholder farmers or rural communities
• Align with at least one challenge track
• Commit leadership participation

Eligible Organisations

• Startups
• SMEs
• NGOs
• Non-profit organisations
• Academic institutions
• Social enterprises
• Private sector companies

Eligible Countries

Global – Open to organisations worldwide

Required Application Materials

• Resumes (up to 4 team members)
• Pitch deck
• 2-minute pitch video
• Organisation and solution details

Click HERE to visit the official website.

Application Guidelines