Selection process

1March 2025

Call for applications

The call for applications of the AgriTech4Rwanda Innovation Challenge opens on March 18 and closes on April 16, 2025, at 23:59 (PM, CAT).

2May 2025

Selection of 25 shortlisted teams

25 teams are shortlisted based on the applicability of their solutions to the Rwandan 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 AgriTech4Rwanda Bootcamp.

3July 2025

Bootcamp in Kigali, Rwanda

The 25 selected teams are invited to travel to Kigali 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.

4July 2025

Announcement of the 15 finalists

The Bootcamp is concluded with the selection and announcement of the top 15 innovations shortlisted by the AgriTech4Rwanda Selection Committee, granting them admission to the Accelerator Program.

5August 2025

Acceleration program

The final 15 innovators participate in a fully sponsored 3-month Accelerator Program, combining business training and scientific technical assistance, supporting them in testing, validating, and preparing to scale their innovations.

6October 2025

Demo day

The Accelerator 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. 

Eligibility Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on the following:

Relevance to Rwanda’s agricultural context and the Challenge’s priority sectors
Scientific and technical feasibility
Proven financial track record
Innovation, sustainability, and scalability
Direct Impact on farmer resilience and climate adaptation
Team capacity and execution ability