Young agritech innovators have a chance to win an investment of over Rwf20 million ($20,000) for their startups, which aims to enhance the income and productivity of smallholder farmers. Heifer International has organized the 'AYuTe Africa Challenge,' a competition specifically targeting youth-operated local startups that have introduced agritech businesses in the past three years and exhibit strong potential for scaling. ALSO READ: Heifer International to lift millions out of poverty Adesuwa Ifedi, Senior Vice President of Africa Programs at Heifer International, expressed that the competition offers a vital opportunity for young innovators in Rwanda to secure funding and gain visibility. This support will enable them to expand their agritech solutions and reach millions of farmers throughout Africa. If we are to realize the immense economic growth and employment opportunities in the agricultural sector across Africa, we need fresh ideas and urgent technological advancements. Africa's tech-savvy youth must utilize their innovative skills to transform the sector, Ifedi emphasized. Betty Tushabe, Heifer International Rwanda Country Director, highlighted the competition's objective of translating the passion and ideas of young innovators into sustainable benefits for the communities served by the organization in Rwanda and beyond. Our aim through this challenge is to foster the growth of youth-led agri-tech initiatives by providing a cash incentive and accompanying business development support services, Tushabe added. The AYuTe Africa Challenge will take place from May to July 2023, and applications will be accepted from May 3rd to 26th. The competition will provide assistance to companies, individuals, and groups that are driving innovation in agriculture across two categories: Start-Up Stage and Minimum Viable Product Stage. Since 2021, the competition has been awarding cash grants annually to the most promising young agritech innovators from across Africa. It also offers mentorship to help these young entrepreneurs translate their ideas into meaningful impact for smallholder farmers in the region. Furthermore, the winners receive ongoing support to expand their businesses and enhance their profiles. The competition will run from May to July 2023, and applications are open from the 3rd to the 26th of May 2023. For more information on the application and selection process, please contact startups@cchub.africa with the subject “Re: AYuTe Africa Challenge”
