With the application window for the Youth in Agroecology Startup Competition 2026 now closed, we would like to thank every young entrepreneur, innovator, and changemaker who submitted an application. Your enthusiasm and commitment to building healthier communities, promoting agroecology, and transforming Ethiopia’s food systems have been truly inspiring.
As we move into the next phase of the competition, we would like to share what applicants can expect over the coming weeks.
3–4 August: Eligibility Screening
The ESFSAC team will conduct an initial eligibility screening of all applications. During this stage, we will verify that applicants have successfully completed all application requirements and assess whether:
- The application represents an operational startup.
- The startup aligns with the competition’s focus areas.
Only applications that meet the eligibility requirements will proceed to the next stage.
5–7 August: Evaluation and Shortlisting
An independent panel of judges will evaluate all eligible startups using a detailed scoring tool based on the competition criteria. The assessment will consider:
- Relevance
- Sustainability
- Impact
- Efficiency
- Scaling-up potential
Following this process, the top 10 startups will be shortlisted to advance to the next stage of the competition.
13–14 August: Coaching and Mentorship
The shortlisted startups will participate in an intensive coaching and mentorship programme designed to strengthen their business plans and prepare them for the final pitch competition.
Participants will receive practical guidance on presenting their innovations, refining their business models, and effectively communicating their impact to the judging panel.
21 August: Pitch Competition Day
The competition will culminate in the Pitch Competition Day, where the top 10 startups will present their businesses before a panel of judges.
Following the presentations, the top three winners of the Youth in Agroecology Startup Competition 2026 will be announced.
Stay Connected
We encourage all applicants to regularly check their email, as shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly with further instructions and important updates.
Thank you once again for your interest and participation. We are excited to learn more about your innovative solutions and look forward to celebrating the creativity, resilience, and leadership of Ethiopia’s young agroecology entrepreneurs.
We wish every applicant the very best of luck throughout the competition.
