WFP Innovation Accelerator Programme: US $100,000 in Equity-free Funding for New NGOs

Deadline: 31-Jan-21

Apply to the WFP Innovation Accelerator to receive up to US $100,000 in equity-free funding, mentorship from industry experts, and access to the world’s largest humanitarian organization.

The WFP Innovation Accelerator sources support and scales high-potential solutions to end hunger worldwide. They provide WFP staff, entrepreneurs, start-ups, companies and non-governmental organizations with access to funding, mentorship, hands-on support and WFP operations.

Benefits

• Funding: Apply to receive up to $100,000 in equity-free funding, with further funding dependent upon progress and measurable achievement of key targets.
• Access to WFP Operations: Successful teams will work with WFP units on the ground to further develop and refine their solutions.
• Hands-On Support: You’ll have the chance to work with technical and industry mentors who will provide guidance and accelerate your progress.
• Networking: Teams will be able to tap into and leverage a strong network of public, private, and government partners to accelerate implementation.

How It Works

• Apply for an Innovation Bootcamp;
• Take the stage at an exclusive pitch event;
• Sprint from idea to impact;
• Zero in on what works, pre-scale;
• Scale-up for global impact;
• Graduate within and beyond WFP.

Eligibility Criteria

• If you are a start-up:
  • Your start-up must be incorporated at the time of application. It can be for-profit or not-for-profit.
  • Your innovation must at least be at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage. Proof-of-concept and initial traction is preferred.
  • Your solution should be financially viable.
  • Your proposal must show how working with WFP will serve your long-term strategy.
• If you are a WFP employee:
  • Your team must have evidence of Country Office support and management buy-in.
  • You are encouraged to apply, regardless of your contract type or function.
  • They accept project applications from WFP employees who are collaborating with NGOs, government, or private sectors.

How They Select Innovations?

• Applications submitted to the WFP Innovation Accelerator are assessed according to a standard set of criteria and are reviewed by both WFP and external experts.
• Please note that they prioritize projects that are designed alongside their core users—vulnerable communities—and that show initial traction and market validation to ensure impact and maximize cost-effectiveness. They are looking for innovations that meet the following expectations:
  • Impact for the people they serve and potential to reach Zero Hunger.
  • Feasibility, including the time to deliver impact, technology maturity, and user traction.
  • Level of innovation.
  • Financial sustainability with a clear business case that does not rely on WFP funding.
  • Team strength, experience, and commitment.

For more information, visit https://innovation.wfp.org/apply