Apply for the 2025 THRIVE Global Impact Challenge for startups with solutions that will revolutionize agriculture

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Closing Date: 25 May 2025

Apply for the 2025 THRIVE Global Impact Challenge for startups with solutions that will revolutionize agriculture

Overview

The challenges facing agriculture and food systems have never been more urgent. From climate resilience to food security, innovation is essential to build a sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future. The THRIVE Global Impact Challenge is a worldwide search for trailblazing startups with solutions that will revolutionize agriculture.

Aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the Global Impact Challenge is focused on six key themes, each driving innovation to build a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for agriculture and food systems.

Global Impact Challenge Themes

The THRIVE Global Impact Challenge is on a mission to discover the most innovative startups tackling the biggest challenges in agri-food systems. This year, THRIVE is seeking groundbreaking solutions across six key themes driving transformation in the agrifood industry:

Regenerative Agriculture

Soil Health
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Restoration
Climate Resilience and Adaptation
Sustainable farming practices
Novel fertilizers & application
Nutrient use efficiency tracking

Artificial Intelligence & Automation

AI-powered farm management platforms
Robotics and automation
AI-driven crop health diagnostics
Supply chain optimization
Data-driven decision making
Vertical and urban farming technologies

Animal Health & Nutrition

Precision Nutrition
Disease Prevention and Management
Sustainability in Livestock Systems
Animal Welfare and Behavior Monitoring
Genetic and Breeding Innovations

Clean Energy & Climate Tech

Renewable Energy in Agriculture
Energy Storage and Grid Solutions for Farms
Electrification of Agricultural Equipment
Carbon Capture and Climate-Smart Agriculture
Biofuels and Green Inputs for Agriculture
Energy efficiency in ammonia and nitrogen fertilizer production

Water & Waste Management

Water Conservation and Efficient Irrigation
Waste Reduction and Recycling in Agriculture
Nutrient Runoff and Water Pollution Control
Circular Water Systems and Reuse
Organic Waste Conversion and Bioenergy Production

Post Harvest & FoodTech

Future crops and novel ingredients
Lab-grown and plant-based meats
Sustainable packaging and food preservation
AI-driven and advanced processing tech
Supply chain & food quality solutions for post-harvest

THRIVE Global Impact Summit

Global Impact Challenge finalists will take center stage at the THRIVE Global Impact Summit, held in Silicon Valley on October 29th and 30th where they will have the opportunity to pitch their groundbreaking solutions to a global audience of investors, industry leaders, and government officials. This premier event features dynamic panels led by industry leaders tackling the most pressing challenges in agriculture and food systems. Beyond the thought-provoking discussions, the summit offers unparalleled networking opportunities, connecting attendees with visionaries, decision-makers, and pioneers driving the future of sustainable agriculture. It’s an unmissable event for anyone passionate about creating meaningful change in the agri-food space.

Challenge awards

Three finalists from each of the six themes will be selected to pitch at the THRIVE Global Impact Summit in Silicon Valley.

Each finalist will receive:

Two complimentary tickets to attend the summit & pre-summit networking reception. A personalized pitch coaching session led by an expert pitch coach Exposure to top industry corporate leaders during Virtual Pitch Day
A dedicated booth at the summit startup showcase

The winning company will receive the THRIVE Global Impact Challenge Award in addition to investment from SVG Ventures up to $1M USD.

Selection Criteria

To be considered for the Global Impact Challenge, applicants must meet the following criteria, demonstrating their potential to deliver innovative, scalable solutions that address critical challenges in agriculture and food systems.

Seed to Series A

Applicants should be early-stage startups or entrepreneurs at the seed to Series A stage. THRIVE welcomes innovative ideas and solutions that have the potential for growth and scalability.

Global Applicants

THRIVE invite applications from around the world. Entrepreneurs and startups from any country or region are encouraged to apply, as THRIVE value diverse perspectives and global collaboration.

Alignment with Summit Themes

Applicants should demonstrate a clear alignment with one or more of the above summit themes. Solutions should address the specific challenges within these areas and offer innovative approaches for positive impact.

Proven Climate & Environmental Impact

Includes showcasing tangible outcomes, data-driven results, or successful implementation of solutions that have positively influenced sustainability, carbon reduction, biodiversity, or other environmental aspects. While not mandatory, THRIVE highly value applicants who can demonstrate a proven impact on climate and the environment.