Selection
Selection process
Call for applications
The call for applications of the AgriTech4Kenya Innovation Challenge opens on 17 July and closes on 11 September 2025 at 23:59 (GMT+3).
Selection of 25 shortlisted candidates
25 teams, including 5 CGIAR-led innovations, are shortlisted based on the applicability oftheir solution to the Kenyan context, scientific relevance, novelty and uniqueness, sustainability and scalability of the business model and team structure and expertise. Shortlisted candidates receive an email confirming their selection and participation in the AgriTech4Kenya bootcamp.
Bootcamp in Nairobi, Kenya
The 25 selected teams are invited to travel to Kenta and undergo a 4-day immersive bootcamp offering technical guidance, business mentorship, on-farm experience, and pitch training to prepare for their pitch-day on the final day of the bootcamp.
Announcement of the 15 Finalists
The bootcamp is concluded with the selection and announcement of the top 15 innovations shortlisted by the AgriTech4Kenya Selection Committee, granting them admission to the acceleration program.
Acceleration program
The final 15 innovators participate in a fully sponsored acceleration program, combining business training and scientific technical assistance, supporting them in testing, validating, and preparing to scale their innovations.
Demo day
The acceleration program is officially adjourned with the demo day where the 15 finalists are given the opportunity to pitch their solutions to investors, industry experts, agribusinesses, scientists, governmental institutions, and partners.
How innovations are selected
Applications are assessed by the Selection Committee comprised of industry experts representing CGIAR and project partners.
Evaluations are based on specific criteria, each rated on a scale of 1-5 (1 being poor and 5 being excellent).
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Applicability to the Kenyan context: Your team should possess a comprehensive understanding of Kenya’s agriculture sector, its specific needs and challenges, demonstrating that your solution is tailored to fit at least one of the program’s six priority areas.
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Scientific relevance: Your solution and its applications should be clearly defined and scientifically validated with a clear connection to CGIAR's Impact Areas and/or ongoing research projects.
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Novelty and uniqueness: Your solution should introduce new concepts, approaches, or technologies that diverge from existing ideas and practices.
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Sustainability and scalability: The solution’s business model should be robust and sustainable, addressing market needs effectively and distinguishing itself from competitors in Kenya. It should be supported by documented evidence of market size, scalability, replicability, and transferability, and the ability to prevent competitors from replicating or infringing the innovation.
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Environmental and social impact: The solution should effectively address social and environmental challenges, with measurable and positive impacts in these areas.
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Team: Your team should have a diverse and complementary skillset, and possess technical, scientific or industry specific knowledge. Your team demonstrates inclusivity, dedication, and commitment to the activities and deliverables of the innovation challenge.