Competitions and prizes still accepting entries, with award sizes, deadlines and a direct link to each application.
2 competitions open now

D-Prize supports entrepreneurs who want to expand access to existing, evidence-backed solutions to poverty. Rather than funding the invention of a new product, the competition focuses on building organisations that distribute proven interventions to underserved communities. Applicants select a challenge area and submit a short concept note explaining the distribution model, target population, implementation plan and expected impact. Examples of relevant models include phone-based tutoring, post-harvest technologies, health interventions and improved access to essential services. Winners can receive up to USD 20,000 to launch their organisation and test their approach. The programme generally favours new organisations and first-time entrepreneurs; organisations with more than 18 months of full-time operations or over USD 30,000 in funding typically do not qualify, although exceptions exist for organisations focused on distributing proven interventions. Early submissions close 25 October 2026; the regular deadline is 15 November 2026. An extension deadline of 6 December 2026 is available under the organiser's extension process; confirm the requirements before relying on an extension.

This global challenge seeks innovative technologies that can improve food and agricultural productivity, use resources more efficiently and strengthen resilience across food systems. Applicants should demonstrate a clearly defined problem, differentiated technology, measurable impact, customer value and a credible commercialisation pathway. Relevant solutions include food preservation and packaging, post-harvest loss reduction, food safety and traceability, precision agriculture, sensors, artificial intelligence, agricultural biologicals and automation. The selected winner or winning solution can receive a USD 150,000 challenge prize. Additional investment of up to USD 1.5 million may be considered for selected opportunities, subject to due diligence and investment approval. The competition is particularly relevant to ventures capable of demonstrating practical benefits for Canadian producers, food businesses or consumers.