Platform for African – European Partnership in Agricultural Research for Development

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

DialogueNEXT in Africa: Born To Feed the Future

30 June - 1 July 2026.
Nairobi, Kenya. Agricultural leaders, researchers, farmers, entrepreneurs, policymakers and investors gathered for the inaugural DialogueNEXT Africa, organized by the World Food Prize Foundation under the inspiring theme "Born to Feed the Future." 

DialogueNEXT in Africa came ahead of the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue to be held in Des Moines, Iowa, October 20–22, 2026.


The event explored how Africa can harness its scientific excellence, entrepreneurial talent and agricultural diversity to become a global leader in sustainable food production. Throughout the day, speakers emphasized that the continent's food systems transformation must be driven by African farmers, youth, women, researchers and innovators working together through strong regional and international partnerships.
"It is an honor to hold this conference in Africa, four decades after Dr. Borlaug made his first major visit to the continent in 1984. Borlaug came with a simple but powerful conviction: that science in the hands of farmers could defeat hunger. That mission is unfinished and more urgent than ever as Africa's food systems must feed a young, growing and increasingly urban population.” Mashal Husain (see picture), President, World Food Prize Foundation.

 "Hosting this conversation in Africa is not just symbolic, but necessary. This continent is home to some of the world's most dynamic agricultural systems and most resilient farmers, yet it remains chronically underinvested in. The challenges — climate shocks, fragile supply chains, growing populations — are real, but so are the solutions, which are increasingly being developed by African scientists, farmers and entrepreneurs. The insights that emerge from Nairobi will help shape the global agenda." Akinwumi Adesina,
2017 World Food Prize Laureate; Member, World Food Prize Foundation Council of Advisors; and Former President of the African Development Bank Group.

Agenda


The conference featured a series of high-level dialogues addressing the major drivers of agricultural
transformation. 


Farmer-Centred Innovation



The session on Farmer-Centred Innovation highlighted how research, extension services and digital technologies can better respond to the needs of smallholder farmers. 
  • Elizabeth Nsimadala, President of the Eastern Africa Farmers Federation (EAFF), stressed the importance of placing farmers at the centre of innovation
  • Canisius Kanangire, Executive Director of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), discussed the role of agricultural technologies in improving productivity. 
  • Andrew Mude, Principal Scientist at the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), shared insights into strengthening resilience through innovative livestock systems. 

Technology and Digital Agriculture


Discussions on Technology and Digital Agriculture explored how digital tools, artificial intelligence, mechanization and precision agriculture can accelerate productivity and resilience. 
  • Leena Tripathi, Director of the Eastern Africa Hub of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), joined fellow experts in demonstrating how scientific research and biotechnology continue to expand opportunities for African farmers. 
  • Canisius Kanangire – African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF)

Women Feeding Africa

Another session on Women Feeding Africa celebrated the pivotal contribution of women across agricultural value chains
  • Doreen Irungu, Founder and CEO of Ustawi Afrika, highlighted the role of women entrepreneurs in transforming food systems.

Youth, entrepreneurship and innovation

The Agripreneurship and Youth Innovation dialogue showcased emerging African innovators and Top Agri-food Pioneers who are developing new business models for agriculture


Optimising Agricultural Regulations

Participants also examined how enabling regulatory frameworks and strategic investments can stimulate innovation and strengthen agricultural value chains.

DialogueNEXT Africa also underscored the importance of collaboration among governments, national agricultural research systems, CGIAR centres, regional organizations, the private sector and farmer organizations. The conference concluded that achieving resilient and nutritious food systems will require sustained investments in research and innovation, supportive policies, stronger public-private partnerships and the active participation of youth and women. 

Technical immersion visits

Following the conference, delegates participated in technical immersion visits hosted by leading agricultural innovation institutions,

Participants visited the Alliance's "Partners Day: Connecting Science, Community & Markets", where researchers, entrepreneurs and agrifood innovators demonstrated how agricultural research is translated into value-added products and market opportunities. The programme included networking with investors and policymakers and exhibitions of climate-smart innovations.

  • Hello Tractor Experience Center – Participants explored how IoT, asset finance, digital marketplaces and mechanization services are helping smallholder farmers access tractors and improve productivity through innovative business models. 
  • International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) – Delegates visited the MRGM Farmer Cooperative to learn how research, farmer-led innovation and circular use of rice straw are improving rice productivity, market access and livelihoods. 
  • International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) – Visitors toured ILRI's Nairobi campus, including its advanced bioscience laboratories and the Mazingira Centre, to see how CGIAR research is advancing livestock productivity, animal health and climate resilience.
  • CIMMYT – The immersion showcased climate-smart innovations for maize, wheat and dryland cropping systems and demonstrated how research partnerships translate scientific advances into practical solutions for farmers. 
  • WorldFish – Participants visited a science-supported fish farm to explore climate-resilient aquaculture, sustainable fish production, feed management and post-harvest innovations. 
  • International Potato Center (CIP) – The visit highlighted how research, youth entrepreneurship and partnerships are strengthening root and tuber crop value chains through quality seed systems, climate-smart production and digital advisory services. 
  • Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT – Through its "Partners Day:
    Connecting Science, Community & Markets,"
    the Alliance demonstrated how agricultural research is transformed into value-added products and market opportunities through collaboration with entrepreneurs. 
  • International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) – Delegates discovered insect-based innovations supporting One Health, sustainable food systems and circular bioeconomy solutions for agriculture and nutrition. 

Mugala Naturals: Organic food venture that is powering a climate-smart future had a stand at ICIPE stand to promote inclusion if cricket powder in Mainstresm processed nutritious climate resilient value chains.

These visits showcased how CGIAR research is being translated into practical solutions for farmers and policymakers across Africa.


Asia-Pacific Biopesticides Community of Practice (ABCoP) session


1 July 2026
. Asia-Pacific Biopesticides Community of Practice (ABCoP) session

This webinar focused on how nature-based pest management and biopesticides can strengthen climate-resilient agriculture across Asia and Africa, with particular attention to dryland farming systems and fragile mountain ecosystems. 

 participated in this online webinar.

As part of APAARI's monthly ABCoP series, the webinar brought together some 40 persons: researchers and development practitioners to share scientific advances, practical experiences, and regional partnerships that can accelerate the transition from synthetic pesticides towards biological alternatives. The session aligned with ABCoP's broader objective of promoting knowledge exchange, regulatory harmonization, innovation, and the wider adoption of biopesticides for sustainable agriculture and safe trade.
  • Jagdisha Jaba, Scientist & Lead- Entomology International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics(ICRISAT) India - “Advancing biopesticides for Dryland Crops: Present insights and future pathways in Asia & Africa”
  • Rajendra Dhakal Climate Resilient Analyst Livelihood International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) Nepal - Nature-based Solutions for Sustainable Pest Management: Lessons from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Region.

The first presentation, "Advancing Biopesticides for Dryland Crops: Present Insights and Future Pathways in Asia & Africa," by Jagdisha Jaba (ICRISAT, India), examined the opportunities and challenges of deploying biopesticides in semi-arid and dryland cropping systems. The presentation highlighted recent research on biological crop protection for drought-prone agriculture, discussed constraints such as product efficacy, farmer adoption, regulatory frameworks, and commercialization, and explored future research priorities and cross-regional collaboration between Asia and Africa. Particular emphasis was placed on integrating biopesticides into broader integrated pest management (IPM) systems to improve resilience while reducing dependence on synthetic pesticides.

The second presentation, "Nature-based Solutions for Sustainable Pest Management: Lessons from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Region," by Rajendra Dhakal (ICIMOD, Nepal), demonstrated how ecosystem-based approaches—including biodiversity conservation, ecological pest regulation, climate adaptation, and community-based natural resource management—can improve pest management in fragile mountain landscapes. Drawing on experiences from the HKH region, the session illustrated how nature-based solutions contribute simultaneously to climate resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental protection while strengthening local agricultural systems. It also highlighted the value of regional cooperation and knowledge-sharing across mountain countries facing similar climate and pest challenges.


NUS in Odisha: Strategies for Revival, Conservation, and Promotion

1 July 2026. "Forgotten Foods: Strategies for Revival, Conservation, and Promotion to Strengthen Nutritional Security and Climate Resilience in Odisha."
  • Traditional and underutilized foods such as millets, legumes, tubers, indigenous greens, and other local crop varieties are rich in nutrients, resilient to changing climatic conditions, and deeply embedded in our cultural heritage. Reviving these forgotten foods can play a significant role in enhancing nutrition, conserving agrobiodiversity, and strengthening sustainable food systems.
  • This webinar brought together 130 online participants: experts, researchers, practitioners, and community representatives to share experiences, innovations, and strategies for conserving, promoting, and scaling up forgotten foods.
The discussions focused on community-led conservation efforts, seed systems, nutritional and ecological significance of traditional foods, value addition, market opportunities, and pathways for wider adoption and policy support.
  • Importance of forgotten foods for nutrition and climate resilience.
  • Documentation and conservation of crop biodiversity.
  • Community-led seed systems and traditional knowledge.
  • Success stories and best practices from the field.
  • Vision and strategy for mainstreaming forgotten food initiatives.

The webinar invitation and concept note

  • Mr. Anshuman Das, Lead Expert - Agroecology and Food Systems, WHH - Challenges in promotion of landscape based farming systems with respect to forgotten foods - A comparative experience from Odisha and across India.
  • Padma Shri Sabarmatee, Secretary and Co Founder, Sambhav - Methodology for Germplasm Conservation & Varietal Mapping & its importance
  • Mr. Dinesh Balam, Head - Food Systems, AI and Regenerative Agriculture, ISB 
    Strategy and Vision for Reviving of Forgotten Foods

    Dinesh referred to GFAiR's South-South Forgotten Foods Consortium ([Collective Action]

  • Mrs. Bhagya Laxmi, Associate Director, WASSAN - Why ! Community led seed system for neglected crops
  • Dr. Oliver King, Director- Biodiversity, MSSRF - Success Stories: Community conservation & upscaling of Forgotten Food & Neglected Crops

    Oliver referred to the Manifesto on Forgotten Foods spearheaded by GFAR/GFAiR

Tuesday, June 30, 2026

Webinars and events July 2026

1 July 2026.  Asia-Pacific Biopesticides Community of Practice (ABCoP) session 
1 July 2026."Forgotten Foods: Strategies for Revival, Conservation, and Promotion to Strengthen Nutritional Security and Climate Resilience in Odisha."
  •  11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (IST). 7:30 AM – 9:30 AM Central European Summer Time (CEST)
  • Traditional and underutilized foods such as millets, legumes, tubers, indigenous greens, and other local crop varieties are rich in nutrients, resilient to changing climatic conditions, and deeply embedded in our cultural heritage. Reviving these forgotten foods can play a significant role in enhancing nutrition, conserving agrobiodiversity, and strengthening sustainable food systems.
  • The discussions will focus on community-led conservation efforts, seed systems, nutritional and ecological significance of traditional foods, value addition, market opportunities, and pathways for wider adoption and policy support.
  • This webinar will bring together experts, researchers, practitioners, and community representatives to share experiences, innovations, and strategies for conserving, promoting, and scaling up forgotten foods.
  • Join Online or on YouTube Live
  • The webinar invitation and concept note
1-2 July 2026. Utrecht, the Netherlands. Land, Conflict, and Peace conference

1-3 July 2026 (Accra, Ghana). CIRAWA Agroecology and Nature-Based Solutions for Sustainable Food Systems in Africa Conference.
  • The EU-funded project CIRAWA has been collaborating with farmers and stakeholders in four West African countries (Cape Verde, Ghana, Senegal, and The Gambia) since 2023, to develop and share agroecological and nature-based solutions that promote sustainable and resilient farming.
7 July 2026. Empowering Youth and Women in Agrifood: Bridging Entrepreneurship and Job Creation for Sustainable Impact - Organizers: PAFO and COLEAD

8 July 2026. 8:00 - 9:00 AM, Brussels time (CET) Roots of resilience: How Farmers Organizations are reclaiming Indigenous knowledge and research to tackle breadfruit and banana value chains challenges in the Pacific and Philippine

8 - 10 July 2026. FONTAGRO Knowledge Week

9 July 2026. Leveraging Digital Solutions for Strengthening the Seed Systems in Africa

11 - 12 July 2026. Brussels. Festival Afrodisiac

15-17 July 2026 – Nairobi, Kenya. Africa Food Manufacturing Kenya & Eastern Africa

16 July 2026 – Nairobi, Kenya. Africa Food Awards

27–31 July 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria. 9th Africa Agriculture and Science Week AASW9 and the 10th FARA General Assembly

3 - 6 August 2026. Malaysia. SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY 2026,

4 - 8 August 2026. Cotonou, Benin World Social Forum 2026
  • After more than a decade, Africa welcomes the World Social Forum to Benin.
  • This 17th edition of the WSF reflects a strategic reading of the dynamics of struggles, resistances and alternative proposals carried by West African communities.
7-8 August 2026. African Food Research & Innovation Conference, online
  • The Role of Industry in Funding African Food Research Plenary
  • Winning Research Funding: Strategies for African Food Researchers
  • The Role of Banks and Investors in Funding African Food Research Plenary
  • The Role of International and Multilateral Organisations
  • The Role of Development Finance and Government-Backed Institutions
  • The Role of Academia in Advancing African Food Research
10-13 August 2026. Burgas, Bulgaria14th International Conference on Agriculture & Food

25 - 26 August 2026. Leuven, KU Leuven. Plant-Based Fermented Foods for Healthier and More Sustainable Diets - Health Farm Final Conference

31 August - 3 September 2026, Kigali, Rwanda. Africa Food Systems Forum 2026 Summit

8-10 September 2026, Dubai World Trade Centre, UAE. Agra Middle East 2026 (AgraME 2026)

11-12 September 2026. Accra. Phenomics in Plant Breeding
  • The International Plant Phenotyping Network (IPPN) is organizing a symposium in Accra – Ghana, incl a 2-day workshop for which participants can apply for full cover of travel, stay and symposium costs via this Novo Nordisk sponsored event: the Phenotyping Innovation Sprint
14-16 September 2026, Rome, Italy. Global Conference on Agriculture & Horticulture

16 to 18 September 2026 in Göttingen (Germany) and online. TROPENTAG 
  • under the theme 'Towards multi-functional agro-ecosystems promoting climate-resilient future'.
  • The call for workshops was open until 3 May 2026. 
15-17 September 2026 – Lagos, Nigeria Africa Food Manufacturing Nigeria & Western Africa

22–25 September 2026. Nairobi (Kenya). Smart Agriculture: Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Trade for a Climate-Challenged Africa.
  • The event invites papers and proposals on topics like climate-smart ag, agri-finance, digital tech, value chains, and gender/youth in agriculture - by African Association of Agricultural Economists (AAAE).
24–25 September, Brussels. EU AgRI 2040 Conference “Future-proofing EU Agri-Food through research and innovation”

October 2026. FAO’s World Food Forum (WFF) Youth Assembly
This is a year-round platform for youth engagement in agrifood systems. It includes ongoing virtual and thematic consultations throughout the year and typically culminates in activities around the flagship World Food Forum event in October.

19–23 October 2026. FAO HQ, Rome, Italy. CFS 54th Plenary Session

19-30 October 2026. Seventeenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity

27 October 2026, Addis Ababa. AU-EU High-Level Policy Dialogue on Science, Technology and Innovation

31 October 2026. International Conference on Agroforestry Systems for Climate Adaptation and Biodiversity (ICASCAAB-2026)
Focuses on agroforestry systems, climate adaptation, and biodiversity — a platform for researchers and practitioners to share developments in the field.

17 – 20 November 2026. 1st Eastern Africa Indigenous Seed Conference - EA-ISC 2026
  • Building farmer managed seed system community of practice (COP) For a Resilient EASTERN AFRICA Region.
  • Catholic university of Eastern Africa, Nairobi, Kenya
25 November 2026. Bari, Italy. AU-EU Innovation fair - focus on food and nutrition security and sustainable agriculture

25-27 November 2026. Santiago, Chile. XI CONGRESSO LATINOAMERICANO DE AGROECOLOGIA

30 November - 3 December 2026 RUFORUM’s 22nd AGM
  • To be held in Zambia, hosted by the Government of Zambia and RUFORUM member universities in Zambia.
  • This AGM edition offers Zambia, the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), the rest of Africa, and partners an opportunity to discuss current development opportunities and challenges, and to co-create roadmaps for delivering solutions.

AR4D Funding Opportunities for Africa : July 2026

Agriculture Fisheries Forestry

Phosphorus Fellowship

2026-07-07

The African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) accepts applications for the Young African Phosphorus Fellowship. This program aims to support early-career scientists working in African National Agricultural Research and Extension Systems institutions or universities who are conducting innovative research on phosphorus management in African agro-ecosystems. APNI will award up to five fellowships of US$5,000 each. Applicants must be full-time scientists at an African NARES institution or university. The application deadline is 07 July 2026.

Youth Leadership Program

2026-07-13

The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub invites applications for the second cohort of its Youth Leadership Program to build a global network of emerging leaders driving food systems transformation. This two-year fellowship is open to individuals between 18 and 35 years old who are proficient in English and hold nationality in a low- or middle-income country, with particular emphasis on Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean. Applicants must demonstrate experience leading or contributing to initiatives in food systems, sustainable development, or climate action. The program provides comprehensive leadership development, peer mentorship, and direct exposure to global United Nations partners and expert networks. The deadline for applications is 13 July 2026.

Freezailah Fellowships 2026

2026-07-20

The International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) makes grants through the Freezailah Fellowship Fund in support of capacity building. The grant can be used for training opportunities, demonstration tours, participation in conferences and workshops, preparation of technical papers, and post-graduate degrees. Grants up to US$10 thousand are in support of sustainable tropical forest management. Applicants are young and mid-career professionals in ITTO’s member countries; most grants are to individuals in developing countries. The next application deadline is 20 July 2026.

Gender Responsive Research for Optimized Women Fellowship

2026-07-24

African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) invites applications for its GROW Fellowship. This two-year, immersive non-residential program strengthens the leadership pipeline of women professionals working in plant breeding, livestock breeding, and related fields across Africa. Eligible applicants must be female citizens of any African country who hold at least a master's degree in plant or livestock breeding and possess a minimum of five years of experience in crop or livestock improvement research. Eligible candidates must also be affiliated with a university, national agricultural research institution, private company, or other relevant organization. The fellowship provides customized leadership, negotiation, and mentoring training, though specific monetary funding amounts are not disclosed. The deadline for applications is 24 July 2026.

Biodiversity Conservation Wildlife

Creating New Protected Areas

2026-07-01

The Rainforest Trust partners with local conservation organizations to create new protected areas and expand existing ones for Critically Endangered and Endangered species. The Initiative invites applications for conservation partnerships from nonprofit entities and NGOs for projects in tropical Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Applying organizations may submit proposals for either a land purchase or a protected area designation. Applications to create new protected areas are reviewed three times per year. The application deadlines are 01 July and 01 October 2026. Applications for less than US$250 thousand may be submitted on a rolling basis throughout the year.

Extra Grants for Biodiversity

2026-07-01

The Darwin Initiative invites applications for its Extra grants program to fund large-scale, collaborative projects aimed at protecting biodiversity and reducing poverty in eligible low- to upper-middle-income countries. Non-governmental organisations, research institutions, and private sector businesses can apply with initiatives that demonstrate strong potential to scale up proven environmental interventions. The program provides funding ranging from £1 million to £5 million for a project period lasting between two and five years. The deadline for Phase I applications is 01 July 2026.

Small Grants 2026

2026-07-03

The Save Our Seas Foundation invites applications for its small grants program to support original, innovative start-up projects focused on marine research, conservation, or education. The opportunity is dedicated to early-career scientists, conservationists, and educators worldwide who are within five years of receiving their degree. Eligible projects must focus specifically on marine chondrichthyan species, such as sharks, rays, skates, sawfishes, and chimaeras. The foundation provides annual grants of up to US$10 thousand, with awards averaging US$5,000, to cover local initiatives lasting up to 18 months. The deadline for stage-one applications is 03 July 2026.

Care Collective Fund

2026-07-05

GOT BAG offers the Care Collective Fund to support global ocean health and climate action initiatives. The grant program funds a diverse range of partners, including non-governmental organizations, foundations, grassroots initiatives, activists, academic research projects, and social enterprises. Eligible projects must fit a maximum duration of 12 months and align with one of the program’s three systemic pillars: plastic life cycle, maritime ecosystems, or community of care and climate resilience. While the program supports projects worldwide, it gives preference to locally led initiatives in the Global South and high-leakage regions like Southeast Asia and coastal Africa. Selected applicants receive a grant of €10,000 to implement their project. The deadline for applications is 05 July 2026.

Biodiversity Conservation in Madagascar and the Indian Ocean Islands

2026-07-07

The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) invites letters of inquiry for large grants to support biodiversity conservation in the Madagascar and Indian Ocean Islands Hotspot. Non-governmental organizations, community groups, private enterprises, and other civil society entities are eligible to apply for projects that strengthen the protection of priority sites and ecosystems. Grants are available for amounts over US$50 thousand to support conservation actions in Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, and the Seychelles. The deadline for submission is 07 July 2026.

Media Workshop on Biodiversity Reporting in Kenya

2026-07-11

The Earth Journalism Network invites applications for a specialized workshop in Malindi, Kenya, aimed at strengthening conservation and environmental reporting. Print, broadcast, digital, and freelance journalists based in Kenya are eligible to apply, with priority given to women, rural, Indigenous, and early-career media professionals. The program provides a fully funded training experience for about 15 selected participants, covering all costs for travel, accommodation, and meals from 24 to 26 August 2026. The application deadline is 11 July 2026.

Global Grant Program

2026-07-15

The Conservation Nation Grant Program provides funding to help save endangered animals and their ecosystems. This grant will assist early to mid-career conservationists in their efforts by granting up to US$5,000 each, which will fund activities that are essential for their life-saving work but may not be covered by standard grant programs. Applications have to be received by 15 July 2026.

Research on Primates

2026-07-15

The Leakey Foundation funds research related to human origins. This includes research on primate biology, ecology, and behavior. The majority of research grants awarded to doctoral students range from US$3 thousand to US$20 thousand. Larger projects by senior scientists and post-doctoral students may be funded up to US$30 thousand. There are no citizenship restrictions. The next application deadline is 15 July 2026.


Ocean Innovation Funding Program

2026-07-31

Schmidt Marine Technology Partners invites applications for its ocean innovation program to transform promising marine technologies into real-world conservation tools. Universities, non-profit organisations, and startup companies globally can apply with practical, scalable hardware or software projects that improve ocean health, enhance sustainable fisheries, or support habitat restoration. The program does not fund individuals directly unless they apply through an eligible institution or business. Grant amounts typically range between US$100 thousand and US$400 thousand to support the development, testing, and deployment of these systems. The application deadline is 31 July 2026.

Restoration Stewards

2026-07-31

The Restoration Stewards program supports the work of young restoration practitioners and their teams through funding, mentorship, and training to deepen the impact of youth-led restoration projects. Teams receive a grant of €5 thousand to develop their restoration project and raise awareness among their local communities about the importance of ecosystem restoration and healthy landscapes. Projects may focus on preventing, halting, and reversing the degradation of ecosystems worldwide. The application deadline is 31 July 2026.

Grants for World Heritage Conservation

2026-07-31

The African World Heritage Fund (AWHF) provides grants to implement projects and activities which focus on improving the state of conservation of World Heritage properties located in Africa. Project activities are restricted to African government institutions involved in the management and protection of World Heritage sites, both cultural and natural, as defined by UNESCO. The grant will cover direct costs related to project activities. Applicants can apply for up to US$10 thousand in project funding. Projects must be implemented within 12 months. The application for financial assistance closes on 31 July 2026.

Crosscutting

Entrepreneur Award

2026-07-03

The Meaningful Business 100 (MB100) is an annual award program that honors global leaders who effectively combine profit and purpose to advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The award is open to social entrepreneurs, corporate sustainability leaders, impact investors, and micro-entrepreneurs across various industries and regions. Individuals can nominate themselves or others. The deadline for entries is 03 July 2026.

Award for Young Changemakers

2026-07-12

The Moonshot Platform invites applications for the Moonshot Awards to back exceptional young changemakers developing solutions to the world's most urgent challenges. The program is open to global entrepreneurs, innovators, scientists, and social advocates between the ages of 15 and 30 who are leading early-stage projects, startups, or non-profits that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Winners receive equity-free grants ranging from US$5 thousand to US$10 thousand depending on the category, alongside entry into a two-year leadership acceleration program that includes professional mentorship and fully sponsored travel to the awards ceremony in New York City. The final deadline for submissions is 12 July 2026.

Climate Justice Photography

2026-07-12

Photography 4 Humanity invites amateur and professional photographers worldwide to submit images for its 2026 Global Prize. This year’s theme, "HOME," asks artists to explore concepts of safety, belonging, and identity in a world shaped by climate change and displacement. The competition is open to individuals at least 18 years of age, and entrants may submit up to five photographs taken within the last three years. The Global Prize recipient receives a US$5 thousand cash award, and their work will be exhibited at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Human Rights Day. The deadline for submissions is 12 July 2026.

Startup Challenge

2026-07-14

The Social Nest Foundation invites applications for its 2026 Startup Challenge to support early- and growth-stage ventures driving social and environmental transformation. Legally incorporated startups from any country are eligible to apply, provided they have a validated minimum viable product or a product already on the market. The competition focuses on five innovation areas, including climate tech, smart cities, agritech, health, and inclusive economic systems. The single winning startup receives a €10 thousand cash prize, alongside international pitch opportunities and matchmaking sessions with investors in Valencia, Spain. The application deadline is 14 July 2026.

Tech for Good Impact Awards

2026-07-15

The Zendesk Tech for Good Impact Awards provides free software and multiple grants ranging from US$5 thousand to US$50 thousand to global nonprofit organizations. Impact Awards are made to products that promote resilience, foster community, and increase access to careers in technology in areas that range from refugee rights to environmental justice. Zendesk will also provide free product and software donations and Pro Bono support. Applications are due 15 July 2026.

Science and SciLifeLab Prize for Young Scientists 2026

2026-07-15

The SciLifeLab Prize for Young Scientists rewards outstanding early-career researchers. The prize is awarded annually to four young scientists for research performed while they were graduate students in the fields of cell and molecular biology, genomics, proteomics and systems biology, ecology and evolution, or molecular medicine. Applicants must have been awarded their PhD between 01 January 2023 and 31 December 2024. The grand prize winner receives US$30 thousand, and each of the three category winners receives US$10 thousand. Additionally, the grand prize-winning essay is published in Science, and the category winners' essays are published online.The deadline for entries is 15 July 2026.

Student Innovation Challenge

2026-07-16

The Sustainability & ESG Africa Conference & Expo invites applications for its Student Innovation Challenge to uncover practical solutions to systemic environmental, social, and governance issues. Eligible applicants must be 30 years of age or younger and currently enrolled at an accredited university or higher learning institution. Submissions must fall under one of four designated themes, including Nature, Biodiversity and Inclusive Economies. While the specific cash prize amounts or grant funding totals are not specified, winners will present their solutions at the main conference in Johannesburg, South Africa. The deadline for applications is 16 July 2026.

Pitch n Grow Competition

2026-07-20

The African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum invites applications for its Pitch n Grow competition. The program offers early-stage and high-growth women-led African startups the opportunity to present their business models directly to an audience of international investors, venture capitalists, and corporate executives during the annual forum. Eligible applicants must be female founders or business leaders running enterprises based in any African country. The competition focuses on providing market visibility, technical mentoring, and investor match-making; however, specific monetary grant awards are not disclosed. The application deadline is 20 July 2026.

Prize for Environmental Stewardship

2026-07-20

The Earthna Center for a Sustainable Future invites applications for the second cycle of the Earthna Prize. The award program supports global initiatives and projects that integrate traditional knowledge and cultural heritage to tackle contemporary environmental and sustainability challenges. Legally incorporated entities worldwide, including non-governmental organizations, community-based groups, civil society organizations, and private sector businesses, are eligible to apply. Submitted projects must focus on one or more of five strategic areas: water systems, food systems, terrestrial ecosystems, marine and coastal ecosystems, or built environments. The program features a total prize pool of US$1 million, which will be awarded among four winners to help scale and continue their environmental work. The application deadline is 20 July 2026.

Early-Career Awards

2026-07-21

The Wellcome Trust supports bold and creative discovery research that has the potential to improve human life, health, and well-being. The Early-Career Awards provide funding for early-career researchers from any discipline who are ready to develop their research identity through innovative projects. Research can be in any discipline, including STEM, experimental medicine, or climate – as long as it has the potential to improve human life. The Trust covers the researcher’s salary and up to £400 thousand for research expenses. The applicant’s host organization has to be based in the UK, the Republic of Ireland, or a low- or middle-income country (apart from India and mainland China). The deadline for new applications is 21 July 2026.

Young Changemakers 2026

2026-07-26

The Institute for Security Studies invites submissions for its Young Changemakers 2026 essay and video competition, aimed at centering youth perspectives on Africa's long-term future. The opportunity is open to African citizens between 18 and 30 years old who are currently residing on the continent or in the diaspora. Applicants must submit either an essay of up to two thousand words or a three-minute video addressing key development and governance transitions for Africa over the next two decades. Winners will receive fully funded travel to participate in a high-level dialogue in Pretoria, South Africa, alongside mentorship and publication opportunities. The deadline for submissions is 26 July 2026.

Grants for Grassroots Projects in Uganda

2026-07-31

The Embassy of Japan in Uganda provides financial assistance to non-profit, development-oriented organizations in support of community development projects in Uganda. Any projects geared towards grassroots assistance are eligible for financing, including water and sanitation, disaster relief, and agricultural development. The grant amount per project is generally under 10 million yen (approx. US$100 thousand). Potential recipients are international or local NGOs, community-based organizations, educational institutions, and local governments. The Embassy receives concept papers anytime throughout the year, but the selection process is conducted twice a year with deadlines on 15 February and 31 July.

Monday, June 29, 2026

The Memory of the Land: Women, Partnership, and Agricultural Transformation

26 June 2026 The "The Memory of the Land: Women, Partnership, and Agricultural Transformation" webinar, was the second webinar in AgroSpectrum Asia's global series marking the International Year of Women Farmers 2026. 

The session explored the central role of women in transforming agriculture and food systems, arguing that women are not only food producers but also innovators, knowledge custodians, entrepreneurs, and leaders who are helping agriculture respond to climate change, biodiversity loss, market volatility, and technological change. The webinar emphasized that the future of sustainable agriculture depends on partnerships—across genders, generations, institutions, disciplines, and regions—to create more resilient and inclusive agrifood systems.

Discussions focused on how women are bridging traditional agricultural knowledge with scientific research and innovation, strengthening community resilience, promoting climate adaptation, and connecting policy with farmers' realities. Speakers shared examples of women-led innovation in farming, seed conservation, research, agri-business, and international agricultural partnerships. The webinar also examined practical approaches for integrating gender inclusion into agricultural policy, fostering collaboration across the agricultural value chain, and supporting the next generation of women agri-leaders. Participants were encouraged to view partnership not simply as institutional cooperation, but as the foundation for restoring more equitable, resilient, and sustainable food systems.

  • Joanna Kane-Potaka – Executive Secretary, GFAiR – Global Forum on Agricultural Innovation and Research; spoke on the importance of global partnerships and women-led agricultural transformation.
  • Evalyne Okoth – Woman farmer engaged in research; shared practical experiences from farming and community-based agricultural innovation.
  • Carlo Fadda – Research Director, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT; discussed the role of agricultural biodiversity, research, and partnerships in building resilient food systems.
  • Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg – Managing Director for Africa, Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, and one of the World Food Prize Foundation's 2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers; addressed women's leadership, institutional change, and inclusive agricultural innovation across Africa.
  • Moderator: Suchetana Choudhury Goswami – Session moderator, who guided the discussion on women's leadership, partnerships, and agricultural transformation.

Related: FAO releases most comprehensive dataset to date on women in agrifood systems


Related 


28 May 2026
. The first webinar in AgroSpectrum Asia's International Year of Women Farmers 2026 series focused on the growing leadership of women across agriculture and the need to recognize women as key drivers of innovation, resilience, and food system transformation


Rather than viewing women solely as producers, the webinar highlighted their expanding roles as researchers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and community leaders who are shaping climate-smart agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive rural development. It also examined how women-led partnerships across research institutions, governments, farmer organizations, and the private sector are strengthening agricultural productivity and resilience in the face of climate change and market uncertainty.

The discussion emphasized that sustainable agricultural transformation depends on building stronger partnerships between science and practice, integrating indigenous and local knowledge with innovation, and creating opportunities for women to participate in decision-making at every level of the agrifood system. Speakers shared experiences from Africa and Asia on women-led innovation, climate adaptation, agri-enterprise development, and research collaboration, while also exploring how future food systems can become more equitable, resilient, and inclusive.
  • Sumini Sampa, Senior Agricultural Research Officer, Zambia Agriculture Research Institute; National Focal Point – Biodiversity for Food and Agriculture: From Genetic Resources to Resilient Food Systems: Why Women Matter
  • Dr. Chapwa Kasoma, Scientist – Invasive Species Management, CABI Southern Africa Centre: Climate Change, Invasive Species and the Need for Collaborative Agricultural Solutions
  • Chileshe Bwalya, Gender Equity and Social Inclusion Manager, iDE: Why Gender Equity Is Central to Agricultural Transformation
  • Sussana Phiri, YPARD Zambia Country Representative:  Young Women Reimagining Agriculture Through Leadership and Innovation
  • Joanna Kane-Potaka, Executive Secretary, Global Forum on Agricultural Innovation and Research (GFAiR): Partnerships That Power Global Agricultural Innovation
  • Moderator: Suchetana Choudhury Goswami – Session moderator, who guided the discussion on women's leadership, partnerships, and agricultural transformation.

Related:


Webinar 1 | 08 June 2026. Women Farmers and Food Security: Visibility, Roles and Realities
Women farmers play a critical role in ensuring global and local food security, yet their roles often remain under-recognised in policy and practice. This session, featuring insights from UN Women and local women's rights organisations, explores the lived realities of women farmers and the structural factors shaping their work and livelihoods. Regional perspectives will highlight concrete challenges, experiences, and opportunities for strengthening women’s roles in sustainable food systems.

Webinar 2 | 22 June 2026, Structural Barriers and Gender Inequalities in Food Systems
The second session examines structural barriers faced by women farmers, including access to land, finance, services and decision-making. It also explores how climate change, market volatility, supply chains and digitalisation affect women differently. Speakers will highlight women-led solutions and initiatives that address these challenges in practice, combining evidence-based insights with experiences from women leaders and practitioners working to transform seed and food systems.

Webinar 3 | 29 June 2026, What Works: Tools, Evidence and Pathways for Gender-Transformative Change
The final session highlights practical tools, learning approaches, and evidence for advancing gender-transformative change in agriculture and food systems. Drawing on FemHub’s work on toolkits, learning formats, and measuring change, it explores what makes interventions effective in practice—and how practitioners can move from intention to implementation. The session concludes with a joint reflection and call to action.

Agribusiness, Agro-Processing & Food Value Chains

27 June 2026. The Women in Geopolitics Debate Series webinar, focused on the theme "Agribusiness, Agro-Processing & Food Value Chains", examining why Africa—despite possessing some of the world's richest agricultural resources—continues to rely heavily on food imports. 

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The discussion explored whether the continent's food insecurity stems primarily from insufficient agricultural production or from deeper structural constraints such as weak market linkages, limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, fragmented regional value chains, and policy shortcomings. 

Rather than concentrating solely on farming, the webinar emphasized the need to transform entire agrifood systems by strengthening agro-processing, investment, logistics, technology adoption, and intra-African trade so that agriculture becomes a driver of industrialization, employment, and economic sovereignty. 

The session formed part of the Women in Geopolitics Debate Series, organized by Leading Women of Africa (LWA), which seeks to highlight women's leadership in strategic sectors shaping Africa's future.

  • The webinar brought together a panel of senior leaders and practitioners from across the African agribusiness ecosystem to discuss practical pathways for increasing agricultural competitiveness and reducing dependence on imported food. 
  • Speakers represented expertise in agricultural policy, agribusiness investment, agro-processing, food value chains, entrepreneurship, and regional market development, contributing perspectives on improving farmer access to finance, strengthening processing industries, expanding regional trade, and creating inclusive value chains that benefit women and youth. 
  • The organizers presented the event as an interactive policy dialogue aimed at connecting policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, and development partners around a shared vision of building a more resilient, food-secure, and economically competitive Africa. While the announcement highlights a "distinguished panel," the publicly accessible event page does not list the speakers by name; instead, they were presented in an embedded event graphic that is not machine-readable in the available online version.

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Climate week London and agricultural research for development

20-28 June 2026. During London Climate Action Week 2026, agricultural research for development featured prominently in discussions on climate resilience, food security, sustainable finance, and science partnerships. While the week comprised more than 1,000 events across London, only a limited number focused specifically on agricultural research and innovation. The principal sessions are summarized below.

24/06 Climate resilience, food security and economic stability: an Africa–Europe dialogue ahead of COP32

This high-level dialogue was jointly organized by ODI Global and the World Resources Institute (WRI). The event examined how Africa and Europe can strengthen their partnership on climate adaptation, food security, trade, investment and sustainable development in the lead-up to COP32, which Ethiopia will host in 2027. Against the backdrop of the European Union's next Multiannual Financial Framework and Africa's growing role in the global green transition, the discussion focused on how both continents can move beyond development assistance towards strategic cooperation that delivers greater resilience, economic stability and sustainable food systems.
  • Hans Peter Lankes – Moderator; opened the dialogue and framed the strategic importance of Africa–Europe cooperation on climate resilience.
  • Negusu Aklilu – Keynote speaker; outlined Ethiopia's vision for COP32 and the importance of placing adaptation and food systems at the centre of the negotiations.
  • Bernadette Arakwiye – Discussed African priorities for climate adaptation, resilience and sustainable development.
  • Jan Dusik – Presented the European Union's perspective on climate policy, adaptation and future cooperation with Africa.
  • Kevin Kariuki – Addressed financing mechanisms and investments needed to strengthen climate resilience, energy transitions and food security across Africa.
  • Melinda Bohannon – Highlighted the United Kingdom's priorities for international climate cooperation and partnerships supporting resilience and sustainable development.

25/06 The Power of Partnerships: Harnessing UK Agricultural Science for Climate Resilience and Food Security

Organisers: CGIAR, UK-CGIAR Centre and CABI

Content
This high-level panel explored how partnerships between UK research institutions, CGIAR, governments and national partners can accelerate the translation of agricultural research into development outcomes. The discussion focused on scaling climate-smart innovations, strengthening food security, supporting smallholder farmers, and ensuring that research generates practical impact through equitable international collaboration. Particular attention was given to linking UK scientific excellence with local innovation systems across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Speakers

  • Ismahane Elouafi – keynote speaker on the role of CGIAR partnerships in climate-resilient food systems.
  • Nitya Rao – Professor of Gender and Development; discussed inclusive and gender-responsive
    agricultural transformation.
  • Tim Willis – provided a UK government and development cooperation perspective on translating research into impact.
  • John Edmunds – addressed the contribution of science to evidence-based policy and resilience.
  • Anjana Ahuja – science journalist and moderator of the discussion.

25/06 Africa's Climate Innovation: Where Capital Meets Reality


Organisers: Catalyst Fund, FSD Africa, Briter Bridges, BFA Global, Shell Foundation and Trafigura Foundation.

The session marked the launch of The State of Climate Tech Innovation in Africa 2.0, a report examining the realities behind climate innovation financing on the continent. 

This report was produced in partnership with Catalyst Fund , FSD Africa , and BFA Global, with funding data support from Africa: The Big Deal .

  • Rather than focusing only on headline investment figures, the discussion explored which climate technologies are successfully attracting capital, where ventures struggle to scale, and the types of financing,
    partnerships and ecosystem support required at different stages of business growth. 
  • The event brought together investors, development finance institutions (DFIs), entrepreneurs, philanthropies, corporates and policymakers to discuss practical pathways for accelerating climate innovation across Africa. 
  • In this keynote presentation, Nijhad Jamal unpacks the evolving state of climate tech in Africa, exploring how founders, investors, and fund managers are navigating an increasingly complex investment landscape.

2. Climate Innovation Forum

Date: 22 June 2026
Organiser: Climate Action

Content
Several sessions examined the transformation of food systems through research, innovation and investment. Discussions focused on regenerative agriculture, nature-positive food production, climate finance for agriculture, low-carbon supply chains, digital technologies, and public-private partnerships needed to scale agricultural innovations. Food system resilience was presented as a cornerstone of achieving both climate mitigation and adaptation goals.

Representative speakers
The forum brought together ministers, international organizations, investors, agribusiness leaders and research organizations, including representatives from CGIAR, multinational food companies, financial institutions and climate innovation networks. Rather than dedicated agriculture-only panels, agricultural research was integrated into broader discussions on sustainable investment and resilient food systems.

3. Climate and the Future of Health

Date: 22 June 2026
Organiser: The Conduit

Content
This flagship event examined how climate change affects nutrition, food security and public health. Several discussions highlighted the importance of agricultural research in developing climate-resilient crops, improving diets, strengthening sustainable food systems and reducing the health impacts of extreme weather. The event emphasized interdisciplinary collaboration between agriculture, nutrition and health research communities.

Overall relevance for Agricultural Research for Development (AR4D)

Across London Climate Action Week 2026, four consistent messages emerged for the agricultural research community:

  • Partnerships between international research organizations, national agricultural research systems, universities and governments are essential for translating scientific discoveries into development impact.
  • Climate-resilient food systems require continued investment in agricultural R&D, innovation, and locally adapted technologies for smallholder farmers.
  • Research alone is insufficient—effective implementation depends on finance, policy support and equitable partnerships that enable innovations to reach farmers at scale.
  • Food systems are central to climate action, linking agricultural productivity, biodiversity, nutrition, health and economic resilience in the lead-up to COP31.