Opportunity for Young Agribusiness Entrepreneurs to Visit New Zealand

Overview:

An exciting opportunity awaits young agribusiness entrepreneurs to visit New Zealand and explore innovative practices in agriculture. This initiative aims to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of sustainable agricultural solutions. Don't miss the chance to be part of this enriching experience!

Program Highlights:

1. Knowledge Exchange: Engage with leading experts, farmers, and agribusiness professionals in New Zealand to exchange ideas and best practices.

2. Farm Visits: Explore diverse agricultural operations, from traditional farming to cutting-edge technologies, gaining insights into New Zealand's successful agribusiness model.

3. Networking Opportunities: Build valuable connections with fellow entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and potential collaborators during networking events and workshops.

4. Innovation Showcase: Attend an innovation showcase featuring the latest advancements in agricultural technology, sustainable practices, and farm management.

Types of Funding Available

Applicants can apply for feasibility study or proof-of-concept funding.

Feasibility Study Grant

Feasibility study applications must be able to 1) present a viable investment thesis, and an initial capital structure and 2) demonstrate early engagement with potential investors and relevant stakeholders.

Grants range between USD 50,000 to USD 200,000.
Funding to explore the feasibility of the concept. For example, a combination of the following activities would be eligible:

Assessing the investability/bankability of the concept

Conducting market scoping and stakeholder consultations

Conducting an impact analysis including climate and gender impact potential

Designing the capital and legal structure

Promising feasibility studies funded through this window may be considered for follow-on proof-of-concept funding.

Proof-of-Concept Grant

Proof-of-concept applications will be expected to present 1) interest and ideally commitment from investors and relevant stakeholders to support the concept, and 2) a financial model.

Grants range between USD 200,000 to USD 400,000.
If a feasibility study (or equivalent) has been completed, then funding would be provided to complete all design and structuring activities to launch. For example, a combination of the following activities would be eligible:

Finalizing the capital structure financial model

Fundraising and marketing activities with prospective investors

Final selection of implementing partners

Finalizing the legal structure and producing key documents needed to launch

Development of an impact assessment framework and gender action plan (or equivalent) based on the impact analysis from prior feasibility work.

Eligibility Criteria

Proposals must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Purpose:

Proposals articulate a clear need for grant support for the design and/or launch of an innovative blended finance solution.

Solutions must target climate change mitigation and/or adaptation.

Geography: Proposals target one or more developing market(s) in Asia. Applicants do not need to be domiciled in a developing market(s) but end beneficiaries and target activities must.

Sectors: Proposals target one or more of the following sector(s) and sub-sector(s):

Nature-based Solutions (NbS)

Sustainable forestry and climate-smart land use / adaptation

Sustainable agriculture and agroforestry

Climate-related insurance and disaster resilience

Natural resource management, directly linked to preserving and protecting natural assets, such as:

Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture

Sustainable forestry

Forest and blue carbon

Coastal protection

Eco-tourism

Clean Energy Transition

Renewable energy generation (on-grid and off-grid)

Energy efficiency

Energy transmission, storage, and distribution

Sustainable Cities & Infrastructure

Sustainable infrastructure/housing

Low-carbon transportation

Waste and wastewater management

Urban Nature-based Solutions

Applicant: Proposals will only be accepted from organizations or consortiums of organizations. For example, eligible organizations could include asset owners, asset managers, advisory firms, foundations, not-for-profit organizations, and private enterprises. The lead organization must be able to provide 1) proof of incorporation, and 2) financial statements for the previous fiscal year.

Eligibility Criteria:

- Age: 18 to 35 years

- Occupation: Agribusiness entrepreneur or professional

- Demonstrated commitment to sustainable and innovative agricultural practices

Application Process:

1. Online Application: Submit your application through the provided online portal, detailing your background, achievements, and reasons for participating.

2. Letter of Intent: Include a letter of intent expressing your interest in the program, highlighting your contributions to the agribusiness sector and outlining your expectations from the visit.

3. Recommendation Letters: Provide at least two recommendation letters from individuals familiar with your work in agribusiness or related fields.

4. Selection Process: A panel of experts will review applications based on merit, commitment to sustainability, and potential impact on the agribusiness community.

Key Dates:

- Application Deadline: [Insert Deadline]

How to Apply:

Visit our official website [www.agribizvisitnz.com] to access the online application portal. Follow the instructions provided and ensure all required documents are submitted by the deadline.