Bonn, Germany – In a major milestone for the global food systems transformation, the 5th annual Seeding The Future Global Food System Challenge (GFSC) has announced its Seed Grant Finalists and Growth Grant and Seeding the Future Grand Prize Semifinalists. The Challenge, with a prize pool of USD 1 million, aims to support impactful and innovative solutions to address food systems challenges.
Funded by Seeding The Future Foundation and hosted by Welthungerhilfe (WHH) for the first time, the GFSC attracted a record 1,600+ applications from innovators in 112 countries, highlighting the growing global momentum for food systems transformation.
After a rigorous international review process, 36 teams have advanced across three award levels. This includes 16 Seed Grant Finalists who will compete for 8 awards of USD 25,000, 12 Growth Grant Semifinalists who will compete for 3 awards of USD 100,000, and 8 Seeding The Future Grand Prize Semifinalists who will compete for 2 awards of USD 250,000.
Jan Kever, Head of Innovation at Welthungerhilfe, shared that hosting the GFSC reflects their commitment to accelerating bold and scalable innovations where they are needed the most. He also noted the diversity of solutions submitted, stating that it underscores the complexity of food system challenges and the creativity of innovators worldwide.
The submitted innovations cover a wide range of themes and approaches, including climate-smart production, nutrient-dense foods, food loss reduction, and inclusive market models. This reflects the interconnected nature of today’s food systems challenges.
Bernhard van Lengerich, Founder and CEO of Seeding The Future Foundation, expressed excitement about working with Welthungerhilfe as a trusted partner and host of the Challenge. He also stated that he was encouraged by the quality and diversity of innovations emerging from this first year of collaboration.
While the number of awards is limited, all semifinalists and finalist applicants, as well as those with prior recognition from other innovation competitions, will have the opportunity to join the STF Global Food System Innovation Database and Network. This platform, currently in beta testing with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, will significantly increase the visibility and reach of these innovators across a global audience.
The full list of 2025 GFSC Seed Grant Finalists, Growth Grant and Seeding The Future Grand Prize Semifinalists can be found at welthungerhilfe.org/gfsc-finalists.
About Seeding The Future Foundation
Seeding The Future Foundation (STF) is a private nonprofit organization committed 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 Seeding the Future.
About Welthungerhilfe
Welthungerhilfe (WHH) is one of Germany’s largest private aid organizations and has been working towards a world without hunger since 1962. More information can be found at Welthungerhilfe (WHH).
Media Contact WHH:
Simone Pott
Head of Communications
Mobile +49 (0)172-2525962
simone.pott@welthungerhilfe.de
