Applications are open for the 2026 Collective Action on Forgotten Foods (CAFF) Youth Challenge, which empowers youth to revive and innovate forgotten foods. Eligible participants can receive a grant of up to €300. This initiative targets innovative youth in Africa and the Caribbean, with further details regarding eligibility, benefits, timeline, and application procedures to be provided.
Application Deadline:
- 30 April 2026
Tell Me About The Challenge:
The Collective Action on Forgotten Foods (CAFF) Youth Challenge, hosted by The Food Bridge, empowers young innovators in Africa and the Caribbean to revive, promote, and innovate forgotten foods. The initiative transforms traditional knowledge into sustainable solutions, supporting projects that strengthen local food systems, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Projects must focus on one of the following areas:
- Forgotten Foods & Community: Knowledge transfer, resilience, and engagement.
- Forgotten Foods & Technology: Mapping, documenting, and innovating value chains.
- Forgotten Foods & Nutrition: Promoting healthier diets and dietary diversity.
Type:
- Youth Challenge | Mini Grants | Food Systems Innovation
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be young people aged 18–30 from Africa or the Caribbean.
- Propose innovative ideas that promote forgotten/indigenous foods.
- Ensure projects have direct impact on youth in a university campus or semi-urban community.
- Submit a proposal (max 2 pages) with problem statement, expected impact, beneficiaries, and implementation plan.
- Include a detailed budget (€200–€300).
- Apply individually or in groups (max 3 members).
How are Candidates Selected?
- Based on innovation, feasibility, and impact of the proposal.
- Projects must be implementable between June–September 2026.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Africa and Caribbean countries.
Where will the Challenge be Taken?
- Projects implemented locally in universities or semi-urban communities.
How Many Awards?
- Not specified; multiple mini-grants available.
What is the Benefit of the Challenge?
- Mini grants (€200–€300).
- Mentorship and capacity-building.
- Networking with food innovators and changemakers.
How Long Will the Challenge Last?
- Project implementation period: June–September 2026.
Required Documents:
- Challenge proposal (max 2 pages) including group/personal details and budget.
How to Apply:
- Prepare a 2-page proposal with project details and budget.
- Submit application via the provided email/portal link.
- Ensure submission before 30 April 2026.
