Innovative Solutions Needed for Malnutrition through the Fortify Forward Innovation Challenge 2025

Innovative Solutions Against Malnutrition: A Call to Action

The Fortify Forward Innovation Challenge 2025 has officially launched, inviting ideas to combat malnutrition in Africa. Spearheaded by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), this competition seeks transformative solutions aimed at enhancing the nutritional value of food through fortification. With partners from both the public and private sectors, the initiative targets nine countries across East and West Africa, including Nigeria, where malnutrition severely impacts child health—accounting for 45% of deaths among children under five years old.

Michael Ojo, GAIN’s Nigeria Country Director, emphasized the critical need for innovative approaches to tackle notable gaps in food systems. The challenge is designed to mobilize scalable innovations that improve access to nutritious diets, especially for vulnerable populations.

Response to an Urgent Crisis

Malnutrition shapes public health in drastic ways. In Nigeria, the implications are alarming: the country has the highest number of stunted children globally, and dietary issues contribute significantly to health risks. The Fortify Forward Innovation Challenge underscores the urgency of this situation, presenting cash prizes of $5,000 for the top solutions across three key categories: sustainable business models for food fortification, overcoming challenges in biofortification, and creating innovative vehicles for food fortification.

Why Participation Matters

This competition is not just a chance for financial reward; it’s a unique opportunity to influence health outcomes in the region. The challenge invites a diverse array of participants, including startups, researchers, and food producers, to submit proven, workable innovations that can be implemented at scale. Winning solutions will also receive technical assistance, tailored mentorship, and visibility—crucial components for driving impactful change.

Elevating Food Nutrition Systems

Participants must ensure their innovations have been operational for at least a year, showcasing their effectiveness in real-world scenarios. This emphasis on tested solutions is vital for the challenge’s goal of elevating the nutritional quality of staple foods, moving from farm to fork. With backing from notable organizations including the UN Development Programme and the Waterloo Foundation, this initiative positions itself as a significant catalyst for change in the fight against malnutrition in Africa.

How to Get Involved

The application window is open until March 28, 2025. Interested applicants can find more details and submit their entries through the official competition website. Engaging in this competition not only opens doors for cash prizes and mentorship but also contributes to a healthier future for communities struggling with malnutrition. Together, we can foster innovative solutions that make nutritious diets accessible to all.