Innovators, startups, SMEs, researchers, and entrepreneurs developing circular economy solutions for Ghana’s agrifood sector are invited to apply for the CircularEconomy4Ghana Innovation Challenge 2026.
The initiative seeks scalable innovations that promote resource efficiency, waste reduction, sustainable food systems, and green entrepreneurship. Successful applicants will participate in a technical bootcamp in Accra and compete for a place in a three-month acceleration programme designed to help ventures become investment-ready.
About the Challenge
The CircularEconomy4Ghana Innovation Challenge aims to accelerate practical solutions that strengthen Ghana’s transition towards a more circular and sustainable agrifood economy.
The programme supports innovators developing technologies and business models that improve resource recovery, increase agricultural sustainability, reduce waste, and create green jobs. Participants will receive technical support from leading international experts while refining their solutions for investment and scale.
The initiative is led by the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT through the CGIAR Accelerate for Impact Platform (A4IP) in partnership with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI), UNIDO ITPO Italy, and E4Impact Foundation.
Programme Benefits
Selected innovators will receive:
- Participation in a four-day innovation bootcamp in Accra (October 2026)
- Technical guidance from CGIAR scientists and sector experts
- Business mentoring and investment readiness support
- Pitch training and venture development coaching
- Opportunity to join a three-month acceleration programme
- Access to international partners, investors, and innovation networks
Up to 15 teams will be selected for the acceleration programme.
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to:
- Startups
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Entrepreneurs
- Researchers
- Innovators
Applicants should be developing scalable circular economy solutions relevant to Ghana’s agrifood systems.
Areas of Interest
The challenge welcomes innovations in areas including:
- Agritech
- Circular agribusiness
- Sustainable food systems
- Water management
- Resource recovery
- Waste valorisation
- Green entrepreneurship
- Environmental sustainability
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Innovation
- Sustainability
- Scalability
- Scientific relevance
- Market readiness
