NexGenAgri: Pioneering Youth-Led Solutions for Food Systems

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the Youth-Led Innovation Challenge in Agriculture. This initiative aims to empower youth to drive positive change and innovation within the agricultural sector. The primary objective of the NexGenAgri is to empower youth in Sokoto and Zamfara States to develop and implement innovative solutions that address identified challenges and capitalize on opportunities within the agricultural sector.

Focus Areas

Proposals are invited in the following priority areas within the agricultural sector.

• Agribusiness and Value Addition.
• Digital Agriculture and Technology.
• Climate Smart Agriculture.
• Access to Finance and Markets.

Specific Area of Interest

• Explore innovative models for aggregating grains such as sorghum, millet, soybeans, and groundnut. This could include the development of digital platforms for grain trading, or the implementation of community-based aggregation schemes.
• Development of affordable farm machinery, fabrication of irrigation systems, or creation of tools and equipment for post-harvest handling and processing.
• Development of nutritious and convenient food products, adoption of eco-friendly packaging solutions, or implementation of novel processing techniques to reduce food waste.
• Development of innovative preservation methods to extend the shelf life of agricultural products to reduce post-harvest loss.
• Development of technologies for waste reduction, establishment of recycling and composting facilities, or implementation of innovative distribution and storage practices to minimize losses.
• Development of mobile-based extension service or training platforms for extension agents and farmers.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be youth-led teams or individuals aged between 18 and 35 years old and residing in Sokoto or Zamfara States.
• Proposals must demonstrate innovation, feasibility, scalability, and potential for impact.
• Preference will be given to proposals that address specific challenges or opportunities identified in the States.

Submission Guidelines

• Proposals must be submitted electronically using the provided template, which can be accessed at NexGenAgri hub.
• Proposals should include a detailed description of the problem statement, proposed solution, implementation plan, budget, and expected outcomes.
• Applicants may submit multiple proposals, but each proposal must be unique and submitted separately.
• The deadline for proposal submission is August 31, 2024.

Selection Process

• All submitted proposals will undergo a rigorous evaluation process by a panel of experts and stakeholders.
• Shortlisted applicants may be invited to pitch their ideas to a panel of judges during a pitching session.
• Finalists will be selected based on the quality, feasibility, scalability, and potential impact of their proposals.

Benefits for Selected Applicants

• Funding support to implement the proposed solutions.
• Mentorship and technical assistance from industry experts and advisors.
• Access to networks, partnerships, and market linkages.
• Opportunity to showcase innovations and receive recognition/awards.

How to Apply

Interested applicants from Sokoto and Zamfara States can check the NexGenAgri hub to submit your proposal. For all enquiries or questions, please email us at nexgenagri@findef.org