INCiTiS-FOOD 2nd Open Call for Independent Innovators

The INCiTiS-FOOD Second Open Call for Independent Innovators offers targeted funding and support to startups and SMEs developing circular agri-food solutions in African cities. The call supports locally based innovators working with Living Labs to improve food and nutrition security through sustainable technologies such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and insect farming.

The INCiTiS-FOOD project has launched its second Open Call for Independent Innovators to support practical, city-based solutions that address food system challenges identified by its Living Labs across Africa. The initiative focuses on strengthening food and nutrition security (FNS) through circular, inclusive, and climate-resilient agri-food innovations.

What Is INCiTiS-FOOD?

INCiTiS-FOOD is a multi-country initiative designed to transform African city-region food systems using innovative, circular agri-food technologies and business models. The project works through Living Labs, which identify real, local challenges and co-create solutions with innovators and communities.

Core Objectives of INCiTiS-FOOD

The project addresses food and nutrition security across four dimensions:

• Availability – increasing local food production

• Access – improving affordability and supply chains

• Utilization – enhancing nutrition and food safety

• Stability – ensuring consistent food access over time

Focus Areas and Key Technologies

Supported solutions must align with INCiTiS-FOOD’s circular agri-food approach, including:

• Soilless crop farming (e.g. hydroponics)

• Aquaponics and recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS)

• Insect farming for food and feed

• Circular agri-food business models

• Urban and peri-urban food system innovation

The program applies a Lean Start-up Methodology to help innovators rapidly test, refine, and scale solutions.

Funding and Support Available

Grant Funding

• Total funding available: €60,000

• Number of innovators supported: 24

• Selection per Living Lab: 3 innovators per location

Funding is provided to support innovation activities over a four-month implementation period.

Additional Support

Selected innovators benefit from:

• Living Lab collaboration and co-creation

• User-centric testing in real urban food systems

• Ecosystem engagement across the value chain

• Opportunities to work with women, youth, SMEs, and local stakeholders

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must be:

• Independent innovators, including:

  • Startup entrepreneurs

  • Small and medium enterprises (SMEs)

• Legally established entities or individuals

• Able to sign a sub-grantee agreement

Geographic Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Reside and operate in one of the eight cities or towns

• Be located within the six INCiTiS-FOOD countries hosting Living Labs

• Implement activities in the same city or town as the Living Lab

Each applicant may submit only one proposal.

How the Open Call Works

Step-by-Step Process

1. Review the Living Lab challenges in your city

2. Design a solution aligned with circular agri-food priorities

3. Prepare a proposal following the official submission guidelines

4. Submit before the stated deadline

5. If selected, implement activities over four months within the Living Lab

Innovators must ensure no risk of double funding for the proposed activities.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This Open Call supports:

• Locally rooted innovation in African cities

• Sustainable and inclusive food systems

• Youth and women participation in agri-food entrepreneurship

• Scalable solutions for urban food and nutrition security

By linking innovators directly with Living Labs, INCiTiS-FOOD accelerates real-world impact.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Clearly address a specific Living Lab challenge

• Demonstrate practical feasibility within four months

• Align your solution with circular economy principles

• Highlight community, youth, or SME involvement

• Avoid overlap with other funded projects

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting more than one proposal

• Applying from outside eligible cities or towns

• Proposing activities unrelated to Living Lab challenges

• Failing to demonstrate legal or operational readiness

• Overlooking food and nutrition security outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How much funding does each innovator receive?
Funding is distributed from a total pool of €60,000 across 24 innovators.

2. How long is the implementation period?
Each selected innovator implements activities over four months.

3. Can individuals apply, or only companies?
Both individuals and legally established startups or SMEs may apply.

4. Where must the project be implemented?
In the same city or town where the relevant INCiTiS-FOOD Living Lab operates.

5. What technologies are prioritized?
Hydroponics, aquaponics, recirculating aquaculture systems, insect farming, and related circular agri-food solutions.

6. Can I apply if I already receive other funding?
Yes, provided there is no risk of double funding for the same activities.

7. How many innovators are selected per Living Lab?
Three innovators per Living Lab location.

Conclusion

The INCiTiS-FOOD Second Open Call for Independent Innovators provides a unique opportunity for startups and SMEs to co-create, test, and scale circular agri-food solutions within African cities. By combining funding, Living Lab support, and user-driven innovation, the program helps build resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban food systems across the continent.