PALM Innovation Challenge in Iraq

Published by viktorija

Deadline: October 12, 2024
Open to: Innovators, entrepreneurs, and organizations based in Iraq
Benefits: Selected innovation teams will receive up to US$25,000 in an equity-free grant, participate in a January 2025 innovation coaching workshop, join a three-month WFP Sprint Programme to pilot solutions, and gain opportunities for further support and fundraising.

Description:

Iraq is grappling with the effects of climate change, such as extreme temperatures, water scarcity, and agricultural livelihood challenges. The PALM Iraq Innovation Challenge by the World Food Programme (WFP) seeks local solutions, both low-tech and high-tech, to address these issues. The focus is on supporting homegrown innovations that enhance climate resilience and are scalable, sustainable, and capable of improving the livelihood opportunities of affected communities.

The selected teams will be supported through financial grants, mentorship, and coaching, aiming to empower them to scale their innovations and create long-term impact within Iraq’s local ecosystem.

Eligibility:

  • Legally registered entities in Iraq (both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations).
  • Must have an operational presence in Iraq, either through subsidiaries, partnerships, or distributors.
  • Solutions should address one or more of WFP’s priority innovation areas: sustainable agriculture, reducing post-harvest losses, or addressing water scarcity.
  • The innovation must be at least at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) stage, with proof of concept and initial traction preferred.
  • Applicants should include a pilot plan and budget proposal for the three-month pilot phase.

Benefits:

Selected innovation teams will:

  • Receive up to US$25,000 in an equity-free grant from the WFP.
  • Participate in an innovation coaching workshop in Iraq (January 2025), combining business mentoring, ecosystem mobilization, and roadmap planning facilitated by the WFP Innovation Accelerator.
  • Join a three-month WFP Sprint Programme (February – April 2025) to pilot their solutions with operational support and potential integration into WFP Iraq’s long-term programmatic activities.
  • Have the opportunity for further support and fundraising prospects.

How to apply:

For more information, visit the official website.