WFP Innovation Accelerator x Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator 2027 (Up to US$250,000 in Funding)

Applications are now open for the WFP Innovation Accelerator x Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator 2027, a global programme designed to support innovative solutions that strengthen climate resilience and improve the adaptive capacity of vulnerable communities. Jointly delivered by the World Food Programme (WFP) Innovation Accelerator and the Adaptation Fund, the accelerator provides funding, technical assistance, mentorship, and access to a global innovation ecosystem for organizations developing climate adaptation solutions with the potential for large-scale impact.

As climate change continues to threaten food security, livelihoods, ecosystems, and economic development, innovative approaches are increasingly needed to help communities adapt to changing environmental conditions. This accelerator seeks to identify high-potential solutions capable of strengthening resilience while improving the lives of people most vulnerable to climate-related risks.

About the Programme

The WFP Innovation Accelerator x Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator is designed to help organizations move promising climate adaptation innovations from the pilot stage toward large-scale implementation. Through financial support, tailored mentorship, technical expertise, and access to WFP's international innovation network, selected participants will strengthen their solutions while expanding their impact in climate-vulnerable communities.

The programme focuses on innovations that help people adapt to climate change rather than mitigate emissions alone. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their solutions improve resilience, reduce climate-related risks, and generate measurable social, environmental, or economic benefits.

Participants will work with experienced innovation experts throughout the accelerator to refine implementation strategies, validate impact, strengthen operational models, and prepare for long-term growth and investment.

Programme Benefits

Selected organizations will receive:

• Up to US$250,000 in equity-free funding to scale their innovation.
• Tailored acceleration support from the WFP Innovation Accelerator.
• One-on-one mentorship from climate adaptation and innovation experts.
• Technical guidance to strengthen project implementation.
• Access to WFP's global innovation ecosystem and strategic partners.
• Opportunities to collaborate with international organizations, investors, and development partners.
• Capacity-building sessions on scaling innovations and measuring impact.
• Increased international visibility for successful climate adaptation solutions.

The combination of funding and expert support is designed to help organizations transition from successful pilots to sustainable, scalable climate adaptation initiatives.

Focus Areas

The accelerator is looking for innovative solutions that address climate adaptation challenges in areas such as:

• Climate-resilient agriculture
• Food security and nutrition
• Water resource management
• Disaster risk reduction
• Nature-based solutions
• Climate-resilient livelihoods
• Early warning systems
• Digital technologies for climate adaptation
• Community resilience
• Sustainable land management

Projects should demonstrate the ability to improve the adaptive capacity of communities that are highly vulnerable to climate change.

Eligibility Criteria

Organizations wishing to apply should:

• Be legally registered entities.
• Have an existing climate adaptation innovation with demonstrated results.
• Be beyond the conceptual stage, with evidence of testing or implementation.
• Demonstrate potential for scaling and long-term sustainability.
• Show measurable or anticipated climate adaptation impact.
• Be committed to participating fully in the accelerator programme.

Applications are welcome from organizations across the globe, including:

• Startups
• Social enterprises
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Nonprofit organizations
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• Other mission-driven organizations working on climate adaptation.

How to Apply

Interested organizations should:

1. Visit the official WFP Innovation Accelerator application portal.
2. Review the programme guidelines and eligibility requirements.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Provide detailed information about the innovation, implementation results, and climate adaptation impact.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to clearly explain how their innovation addresses climate adaptation challenges, demonstrate evidence of impact, and outline a realistic strategy for scaling the solution.

Selection Process

Applications will be evaluated based on several criteria, including:

• Innovation and originality.
• Climate adaptation impact.
• Evidence of successful implementation.
• Scalability and sustainability.
• Strength of the implementation team.
• Potential to benefit climate-vulnerable communities.

Shortlisted organizations may be invited to participate in interviews or further assessment before final selections are made.