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Applications are currently being accepted for the Moonshots for Development (M4D) Open Innovation Challenge 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and apply for it.
The Moonshots for Development (M4D) Open Innovation Challenge invites innovators to pilot solutions that address food system resilience in rural and indigenous communities. It emphasizes sustainable, inclusive, and scalable solutions tailored to the needs of smallholder farmers and rural households.
The program offers up to $360,000 USD in funding, delivered through a structured multi-phase innovation journey:
Begin with the Phase 0 virtual bootcamp, a dynamic launchpad designed to propel business model development, enriched by a month of personalized mentorship that will set the foundation for success in later stages.
Select teams progress to Phase 1, where startups can secure up to $10,000 USD. This phase offers bespoke coaching tailored to your unique business needs, with exclusive access to M4D’s invaluable resources and networks.
Top teams advance to Phase 2, with up to $100,000 USD in funding, along with comprehensive pilot and implementation support to bring your vision to life.
Finalists in Phase 3 have the potential to earn up to $250,000 USD and receive unparalleled support to scale your enterprise to new heights.
Eligible applicants include:
Teams with a validated business model.
Projects or startups with a functional product or service deployed in a live environment.
Innovators capable of piloting solutions that directly impact rural and smallholder communities.
Applicants must demonstrate the ability to execute solutions with measurable social, economic, or environmental outcomes.
Form a Team – Ensure you have a validated business model and deployed solution.
Select Challenge Track – Choose one of four focus areas: Insurance, Agroecology, Digital Extension, or Fragility.
Prepare Application Materials – Include technical details, proof of product deployment, and social impact potential.
Submit Application – Follow the official M4D application guidelines through the online portal.
Participate in Phase 0 Bootcamp – Engage in mentorship and business model refinement.
Progress Through Phases – Access progressively larger funding and implementation support based on performance and impact potential.
Apply for Moonshots for Development (M4D) Open Innovation Challenge
