Applications for AgriTech4Tunisia Innovation Challenge 2026 Open

The AgriTech4Tunisia Innovation Challenge is now accepting applications for 2026, inviting early-stage agri-tech innovators to refine, validate, and scale technology solutions that strengthen food security and resilience in agriculture. This programme blends mentorship, technical support, market access, and acceleration to drive high-impact ventures from prototype to market readiness.

What the Challenge Offers (Benefits)

 Market & Ecosystem Insights

Gain a deep understanding of Tunisia’s agricultural sector and food systems while aligning your solution with real local needs.

 Bootcamp & Acceleration Support

Selected teams attend a fully funded, 4-day immersive bootcamp in Tunisia to refine strategy and build networks. A 3-month sponsored acceleration programme then provides entrepreneurial training, technical assistance, pitch coaching, and business development support.

 Expert Guidance & Mentorship

Receive tailored mentorship from global experts, CGIAR scientists, and agricultural specialists to improve your product, business model, and go-to-market approach.

 Investor & Partner Connections

Interact with commercial partners, ecosystem players, and potential investors to explore piloting, adoption, or investment opportunities.

Who Can Apply (Eligibility)

This challenge is aimed at early-stage agri-tech teams working on innovations that: Have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) — ideally tested with end-users

Are actively fundraising at pre-seed or seed stage

Address real market needs for smallholder farmers or value chain actors

 Align with one or more priority innovation areas listed below

Focus Areas (Innovation Themes)

Applicants should target one or more of the following priority areas:

• Sustainable water management & smart irrigation
• Precision agriculture & input optimisation
• Climate-smart tools and services
• Post-harvest solutions & market access
• Agri-finance tools to expand inclusion
• Strengthening agricultural value chains & circular economy solutions
• Digital extension services & capacity building tools

These themes reflect pressing challenges in African and Mediterranean food systems, from climate variability to technology adoption barriers.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Agri-tech holds strong potential to transform food systems by increasing productivity, improving resource use efficiency, and building resilience to climate shocks. Yet early-stage innovations often lack the mentorship, technical support, or market access to scale. The AgriTech4Tunisia Innovation Challenge bridges this gap by offering science-linked acceleration support through partnership with CGIAR research centres and global ecosystem partners.This programme is especially relevant for:

• Tech founders building solutions for smallholder or commercial agriculture
• Researchers & scientists with tangible innovations
• **Entrepreneurs targeting climate-smart and digital agri-solutions
• Startups looking to expand into North African and Mediterranean markets

Application Deadline & Timeline

 Deadline:12 February 2026 (23:59 GMT+1)

Shortlisted innovators will be invited to the bootcamp and selected for the acceleration programme soon after. The full timeline, including bootcamp and mentoring phases, is provided upon selection.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Visit the official AgriTech4Tunisia page on the AgriTechChallenge portal (CGIAR Venturespace).
2. Review eligibility & innovation themes to ensure your project fits one or more focus areas.
3. Prepare your submission — include your MVP description, business model, impact goals, market strategy, and team background.
4. Submit your application online before the 12 February 2026 deadline.
5. Await notification from the selection committee for bootcamp and acceleration invites.

Tips for a Application

 Explain the problem you’re solving and how your solution directly benefits farmers or agribusinesses.

Share evidence of testing or early user feedback from your MVP.

Clarify your business model and growth strategy, including how you plan to scale.

Highlight team expertise and operational readiness — potential reviewers look for strong technical and market experience.