The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has launched its latest WFP Innovation Challenge, calling for transformative solutions that strengthen humanitarian assistance, improve supply chain resilience, and ultimately help achieve Zero Hunger. Innovators worldwide—startups, social enterprises, companies, NGOs, and WFP teams—are invited to apply for a chance to accelerate their ideas with the support of the world’s largest humanitarian organization.

About the WFP Innovation Accelerator

Established in 2015 and headquartered in Munich, the WFP Innovation Accelerator supports and scales high-potential solutions that combat hunger. In collaboration with regional innovation hubs, country-level innovation teams, partners, and field operations in over 120 countries, the Accelerator runs bootcamps, sprint programs, and scale-up pathways to bring impactful innovations to communities that need them most.

In 2024 alone, the Accelerator delivered 18 innovation programs advancing social impact and sustainability around the world.

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What the Challenge Seeks

This edition focuses on relief and resilience solutions that address growing pressures on global food systems—from conflict and climate change to rising food and fuel costs. Applicants should propose innovations that deliver:

1. Preparedness & Prevention

Solutions that enhance risk assessment, forecasting, early planning, contingency preparedness, and crisis readiness.

2. Effective Relief Assistance

Tools that strengthen coordination, improve targeting, protect the dignity of affected communities, and ensure efficient delivery of humanitarian aid.

3. Supply Chain Resilience

Technologies and models that help supply chains withstand shocks and maintain functionality during disruptions.

Innovations may be low-tech or high-tech, early-stage or growth-ready, and “wildcard” ideas are strongly encouraged.

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What Selected Teams Receive

Up to USD 100,000 Equity-Free Funding

Non-dilutive seed funding, with potential for additional investment based on performance and progress.

Access to WFP Field Operations

Opportunities to pilot, refine, or scale solutions within WFP’s global network across 120+ countries.

Hands-On Support & Mentorship

Technical guidance, industry expertise, pitch coaching, and strategic support from global experts.

Innovation Bootcamp

A high-intensity, 3–5 day bootcamp where teams refine their solutions, deep-dive into user needs, and prepare to pitch.

Exclusive Pitch Event

Teams present to investors, government leaders, donors, and WFP partners for further opportunities and visibility.

Sprint Programme & Scale-Up Pathways

Six-month acceleration, pre-scale preparation, and long-term scale-up support for high-impact solutions.

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How the Process Works

1. Apply for an Innovation Bootcamp

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted teams are invited to participate in a WFP Innovation Bootcamp.

2. Pitch to Global Stakeholders

Bootcamp participants pitch at an invite-only event for additional support and funding.

3. Enter the Sprint Programme (6 Months)

Teams receive USD 100,000, mentorship, field access, and structured programming.

4. Pre-Scale Assessment

Refinement and preparation for long-term implementation.

5. Scale-Up Enablement

Tailored support for full-scale rollout within WFP or through external partners.

6. Graduation

Successful innovations integrate into WFP operations or become independent, sustainable ventures.

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Eligibility Requirements

For Start-Ups & Companies

• Must be formally incorporated (nonprofit or for-profit).
• Innovation must be at least at the MVP stage; early traction preferred.
• Clear pathway to financial viability.
• Demonstrated strategic value in collaborating with WFP.

For WFP Employees

• Must have Country Office support and management buy-in.
• Open to all contract types and units.
• Cross-sector collaborations (NGO, government, private sector) encouraged.

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Application Timeline

Phase	Dates
Application Deadline	Ongoing (Rolling)
Innovation Bootcamp	TBC
Pitch Event	TBC

Applications submitted after the current review cycle may be considered for future bootcamps.

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How to Apply

To submit your proposal, please complete the WFP Innovation Challenge Application Form.

Know an organization building a promising solution? You can also submit a Referral Submission Form to recommend them.

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Join the Mission to DisruptHunger

With over 828 million people going hungry and 333 million facing acute food insecurity, the world urgently needs new approaches to relief and resilience. If your solution has the potential to reduce hunger, strengthen humanitarian operations, or empower vulnerable communities, WFP wants to hear from you.

Together, we can transform the future of global food security.

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