NourishNext West Africa Youth Agrifood Innovation Challenge 2026

The NourishNext West Africa Youth Agrifood Innovation Challenge 2026 is a regional competition led by GAIN in partnership with SUN Movement and national partners. It seeks youth-led innovations in West Africa that strengthen nutritious fruit and vegetable value chains, including processing, packaging, distribution, marketing, and consumption. Selected innovators receive seed funding, mentorship, capacity-building opportunities, and regional networking and showcasing access.

Seed funding of USD 5,000, tailored technical mentorship, capacity-building opportunities, and access to national and regional networking and showcasing platforms; finalists may present at regional events.

Open to youth-led enterprises and innovators aged 18 to 35 years, based in Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, or Senegal; age limit is flexible for women-led enterprises up to 40 years.

Complete online application form with lead applicant proof of age and evidence of operational stage (e.g., photos, testimonials, financial records, or a pilot report).