Bonn, Germany – On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, global innovators were invited to apply for the Seeding The Future Global Food System Challenge (GFSC), hosted by Welthungerhilfe (WHH) and funded by the Seeding The Future Foundation (STF). The Challenge aims to identify high potential, scalable ideas that can transform food systems worldwide to be more nutritious, sustainable, and equitable, with a particular focus on the Global South.
The call for submissions is open to scientists, entrepreneurs, civil society groups, research institutions, start-ups, and social enterprises with innovations ranging from prototypes to proven concepts. A total of up to $1 million USD will be awarded through three different grant categories:
– Seed Grants: 8 awards of $25,000 each for early-stage innovations with strong potential impact.
– Growth Grants: 3 awards of $100,000 each for promising, economically viable innovations.
– Seeding The Future Grand Prizes: 2 awards of $250,000 each for proven innovations with transformative impact potential.
In addition to monetary prizes, semi-finalists and above will have the opportunity to join the STF Global Food System Innovation Database and Network, an interactive platform featuring over 650 high-impact innovations. This database, powered by WHH, serves as a trusted resource for policymakers, investors, and practitioners working towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The Challenge will be officially launched during the FAO Science and Innovation Week and World Food Forum in Rome, with STF and WHH announcing the opening of submissions.
Applications for the Seeding The Future Global Food System Challenge are open from October 15 to December 15, 2025, and can be submitted through the website www.welthungerhilfe.org/global-food-system-challenge.
The Seeding The Future Foundation (STF) is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring equitable access to safe, nutritious, affordable, and trusted food. It supports innovations that transform food systems and benefit both people and the planet. More information can be found at www.seedingthefuture.org.
Welthungerhilfe (WHH) is one of Germany’s largest private aid organizations, working towards a world without hunger since 1962. More information can be found at www.welthungerhilfe.org.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)
Dennis Van Milligen
Director, External Relations
Tel: 630-853-3022
Email: dvanmilligen@ift.org
Welthungerhilfe (WHH)
Simone Pott
Head of Communications
Landline +49 (0)228–2288–132
Mobile +49 (0)172–2525962
Email: simone.pott@welthungerhilfe.de