The AGYLE program connects emerging business leaders from Africa and Europe to build a long-term network focused on sustainable economic cooperation. The 2026 theme, “GreenTech for Impact,” targets young entrepreneurs and professionals developing solutions in renewable energy, climate-tech, agri-tech, and sustainable mobility. Eligibility is open to individuals up to 40 years of age with at least three years of leadership experience or who have founded their own company. Applicants must be from or have worked for at least five years in Austria, Ethiopia, Germany, Ghana, Kenya, Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, or Tunisia. Selected participants attend a fully funded “Live Week” in Berlin. The deadline for applications is 01 April 2026. Link to AGYLE
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World Food Forum — Startup Innovation Awards
The World Food Forum invites young entrepreneurs to apply for its Startup Innovation Awards. The program highlights youth-led startups using technology to transform agrifood systems, end global hunger, and meet sustainable development goals. Eligibility is limited to startups with at least one founder or executive between 18 and 35 years old. Award winners receive at least US$7,500 per category, while the overall “Startup of the Year” receives an additional US$10 thousand prize. Applications are open globally and must be submitted by 01 April 2026. WFF Startup Innovation Awards
Austrian Development Agency — Business Partnership Challenge
The Austrian Development Agency (ADA) invites applications for the Business Partnership Challenge to support sustainable private sector projects in developing countries. The program is open to enterprises, chambers, and non-profit foundations based in Austria, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland that have been in operation for at least three years. Projects must be implemented in partnership with local organizations in low- or middle-income countries and focus on promoting decent work, inclusive growth, and small business development. The grant offers between €500 thousand and €1 million per project, covering up to 50% of the total costs for initiatives lasting three to five years. The deadline for applications is 12 April 2026. Details here
World Food Prize Foundation — Innovate for Impact Challenge 2026
The World Food Prize Foundation hosts the Innovate for Impact Challenge to accelerate agricultural technology solutions that address global food security. Early-stage, for-profit AgTech startups from any country are eligible to apply. The winner receives a US$50 thousand grand prize, while second and third-place finalists receive US$10 thousand and US$5 thousand respectively. All three finalists gain international exposure by pitching their innovations live at the Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa. The deadline for applications is 15 April 2026. Innovate for Impact Challenge
Climate Curve — Climate Curve Prize: Methane
Climate Curve invites applications for the Climate Curve Prize: Methane to support global solutions for methane mitigation in food and waste systems. The program targets five categories: mitigation, social and cultural pathways, monitoring and verification, and finance. The prize is open to applicants worldwide, including individuals, non-profit organizations, and for-profit companies. Eight laureates will each receive US$25 thousand to support their work, with winners announced during New York Climate Week. The deadline for applications is 17 April 2026. Info
Biomimicry Institute — Accelerator Program
The Biomimicry Institute seeks applications for its Ray of Hope Accelerator. The institute supports high-impact nature-inspired startups from all over the globe. Each selected startup receives US$15 thousand in non-dilutive funding and over US$50 thousand worth of in-kind services. The program includes tailored coaching, investor introductions, and a 4-day Nature Retreat. The application deadline is 24 April 2026. Know more
African Business Heroes — Business Heroes Competition 2026
African Business Heroes aims to support the next generation of African entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their local communities by working to solve the most pressing problems. Applications are open in English and French to entrepreneurs from all African countries, all sectors, and all ages. Ten finalists will compete for a share of US$1.5 million in grant money. All Finalists win grant funds from US$100-300 thousand. The applicant must be the Founder or a Co-Founder of the company. Applications close on 28 April 2026. African Business Heroes
Swiss Re Foundation — Changemakers Africa
The Swiss Re Foundation invites applications for the 2026 Changemakers Africa Incubation Program. This online program is designed to support early-stage entrepreneurs across Africa who are developing innovative solutions in healthcare or climate resilience. Eligible applicants must be based in Africa and commit to 6–8 hours of weekly participation. Participants have the chance to pitch their ventures at the final Demo Day for seed funding of up to US$15 thousand. The deadline to apply is 01 May 2026. Changemakers Africa
EIT Climate-KIC — Green Business Idea Competition
ClimateLaunchpad is the world’s largest green business ideas competition. The competition invites business ideas that address climate change to support new clean-tech startups. Selected participants will take part in an idea boot camp and receive intensive coaching. The winner will receive €10 thousand, the runner-up €5 thousand. Applications for most participating countries must be submitted by 15 May 2026. ClimateLaunchpad
Water Research Foundation — Research Award
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) recognizes individuals for innovative research in water quality and the water environment. The award includes a US$100 thousand grant. The award is open to individuals from all segments of the water quality community. Self-nominations are accepted. There are no restrictions based on citizenship or nationality. Nominations are due by 01 June 2026. Find more information