- The initiative targets a major global issue – one-third of food being lost before reaching consumers.
- The prize specifically focuses on solutions for smallholder farmers in developing regions (South Asia & Sub-Saharan Africa).
- The emphasis is on finding practical and affordable solutions that can be readily adopted by a large number of farmers
- The prize offers substantial financial rewards, industry mentorship, and support to help winning solutions scale and create lasting change.
The Challenge:
Globally, one-third of all food produced is lost or wasted before reaching consumers, causing significant economic losses and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. This issue disproportionately impacts the 500 million smallholder farmers in emerging markets, reducing their income by at least 15%. These farmers, often living in rural areas without reliable energy access, require energy for irrigation, harvesting, processing, storage, preservation, transportation, and distribution.
The Opportunity:
The Shell Foundation and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) aim to increase farmer incomes by reducing post-harvest losses in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Scalable, cost-effective solutions are needed to meet the post-harvest requirements of smallholder farmers, encouraging sustainable agricultural practices and leveraging clean energy technologies.
About the Shell Foundation and Factor E Ventures:
The Post Harvest Loss Innovation Prize, led by Factor E Ventures in collaboration with Shell Foundation, FCDO, ISF Advisors, MicroSave Consulting (MSC), and AndMore Associates, seeks to uncover the next big breakthrough in technology to reduce post-harvest losses for smallholder farmers. Shell Foundation, a charity founded by Shell in 2000, scales business solutions that empower underserved populations through clean energy technologies, in strategic partnership with the UK Government’s FCDO.
About the Prize:
The prize offers more than a $50,000 financial reward for the winning applicant. Finalists gain access to a network of experienced industry leaders and media exposure to showcase their innovation. The winner will also receive post-investment support from Factor E, gaining resources and recognition to accelerate their agritech journey, grow their innovation, and create impact.
Applications and Eligibility:
Applications are open to any entity, including startups, universities, non-profit organizations, or for-profit companies. Applications must be submitted through the Google Form by August 14, 2024, to ensure consideration.
Key Dates:
Download the Ebook nowÂ
Top five finalists announced: September 17, 2024
Final award announcement: September 25, 2024
Submit and Nominate:
Submit your application HERE
Nominate deserving candidates HERE
For questions about the prize or eligibility, please contact submissions@factore.com.
