Introducing the Cultivate Challenge
Registration of interest 2026.
A series of transformative innovations await on the horizon for the plant nutrition industry, from big data, digital optimization and artificial intelligence, to the integration of next generation biology, chemistry and systems science.
IFA members have shared their highest priority areas of innovation and asked how the Association can be a catalyst and facilitator delivering collaborative impact for the industry.
The result is the IFA Cultivate Challenge – a core activity of the new IFA Innovation Hub – co-designed and delivered in partnership to create a world-class startup competition and business development program.
All applicants who successfully proceed through the pre-screening phase will receive an IFA Innovation Hub resource pack and an exclusive webinar with the IFA executive team.
2025 Finalist cohort announced.
Congratulations to the 13 finalists selected for the first ever IFA Cultivate Challenge.
Selected from more than 150 applicants, and over 50 countries, the cohort was announced 30th July 2025.
This group will now participate in a specialized business development program, including presentations and global showcase events, participation in expert workshops, and engaging with the IFA strategic partners and wider membership.
Click each logo to watch the startup’s pitch.
Capsber
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Ficosterra
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HydGene
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LiveGrow
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Marvin
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MazaoHub
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NitroCapt
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Nitrovolt
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Paul-Tech
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Peregrine
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Phospholutions
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PlasmaLeap
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Taxon
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Finalist cohort benefits.
Approximately a dozen selected startups will progress to our finalist cohort, where they will receive:
01
12-months’ free IFA membership.
02
Free registration to a selected international showcase event*.
03
Free registration to the IFA Cultivating Tomorrow 2026 Conference*.
04
Access to a series of professional workshop sessions hosted by industry specialists.
05
Access to a priority business profile listing on the IFA Innovation Platform.
The opportunity to develop direct connections with leaders of organizations from across IFA’s global membership, in order to explore opportunities to collaborate.
The opportunity to pitch in the final competition showcase, with a cash prize pool of USD$15,000.
*Terms & conditions apply.
Registration of interest 2026.
2025 Challenge themes.
Timeline.
Regional showcases.
