Applications are now open for the AYuTE Rwanda Challenge 2026, an exciting opportunity for young innovators to showcase technology-driven solutions that address challenges faced by smallholder farmers across Rwanda. The initiative provides a platform for youth-led startups to scale their ideas, gain national recognition, and compete for significant financial support to expand their impact within the agricultural sector..REGISTER NOW for new programs at MK SCHOLARS

The AYuTE (Agriculture, Youth, and Technology) Challenge is a flagship program by Heifer International Rwanda designed to identify and support innovative, scalable agritech enterprises led by young people. By combining funding, mentorship, and tailored business development support, the initiative promotes productivity, increased farmer incomes, stronger resilience, improved food security, economic inclusion, and job creation throughout the agricultural value chain.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS

·        A total cash prize envelope of RWF 65 million to support winning enterprises, increased from RWF 50 million in the previous edition.

·        Access to mentorship, coaching, and tailored business development support.

·        Opportunity to scale innovative agritech solutions nationwide.

·        Increased visibility and recognition for youth-led startups.

·        Support to enhance productivity, incomes, and resilience for smallholder farmers through innovation.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

·        Applicants must be youth aged between 18 and 35 years.

·        Must be a youth-led local startup or innovator based in Rwanda.

·        Must have developed a technology-enabled solution addressing challenges faced by smallholder farmers.

·        The solution must demonstrate strong potential for scalability and impact within the agricultural sector.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Applicants will be required to provide key business and personal details, including:

·        Business/Project Name

·        Business Registration information

·        Duration of business operation

·        Location of operations

·        Applicant’s role in the business

·        Highest education level completed

·        Gender and personal identification information

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
 Interested applicants must open the application link at the bottom of this page to start their application.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The AYuTE Rwanda Challenge is designed to strengthen the role of youth in transforming agriculture through innovation and technology. By supporting youth-led enterprises, the program aims to improve agricultural productivity, boost incomes, enhance resilience, and create meaningful employment opportunities. Following the success of previous editions, the 2026 Challenge offers expanded funding and increased support to help young innovators grow sustainable solutions that benefit farmers across Rwanda.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
27 February 2026