Radicle Challenge Grant

About this grant

The Radicle Challenge is a competition run by Radicle Growth, an Ag and Food tech innovation platform based in San Diego, to find entrepreneurs with game-changing technologies that could disrupt the agriculture and food industry. Radicle says it aims to transform the food system by identifying promising early-stage companies and connecting them with investment and corporate partners. The Challenge is proactive rather than open-call: Radicle seeks out entrepreneurs itself. Selected companies go through six months of due diligence, after which they present a 15-minute pitch to a panel of judges. All challenges are tied to key investment themes in the food system. The top company receives investment from Radicle Growth and access to the Radicle Innovation Platform, which connects entrepreneurs with leading agriculture and food corporations. Radicle states that many of its portfolio entrepreneurs previously took part in its pitch competitions.

Eligibility

Entrepreneurs and companies with game-changing technologies targeting the agriculture and food industry. The page does not state geographic limits, company stage, or founder requirements. Radicle proactively selects candidates, and the page directs general inquiries and funding requests to its Apply for Funding section.

How it's scored

Candidates undergo six months of due diligence by Radicle, then present a 15-minute pitch to a panel of world-class judges. The page does not describe scoring criteria or weightings. The top company is selected to receive investment and platform access.

Key requirements

• ✓Game-changing technology in agriculture or food systems
• ✓Alignment with Radicle's investment themes in the food system
• ✓Ability to participate in six-month due diligence programme

Funder contact

The notice names a programme contact you can speak to before applying.

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for Radicle Challenge?

Eligibility covers organisations in GLOBAL; startup, sme. See the eligibility criteria above for the full conditions.

Relevant sectors

About this sector

Food systems funding covers sustainable production, supply-chain resilience, food loss, nutrition and smallholder livelihoods. It is offered by agriculture and development agencies, multilateral programmes and foundations, often with a focus on low- and middle-income countries. Applicants are generally asked to show local partnerships and how benefits reach farmers or consumers.