CHALLENGE FUNDS
FROM CHALLENGES TO
TRANSFORMATIVE IMPACT
Vikāra Institute specializes in designing and running challenge funds that do more than fund short-term ideas—they build ecosystems for sustainable change. We specialize in supporting investment impact firms and development organizations to structure and implement impactful challenge funds, ensuring seamless execution and long-term success. Our expertise and extensive network attract high-quality entrants, helping organizations source and support the most promising innovations that will continue benefiting communities for years to come.
CIRCULAR BUSINESSES IMPACTING PLASTICS & THE BLUE ECONOMY 2025
The Circular Innovation Challenge 2025 is driving the shift toward a regenerative future by advancing circular economy solutions. We’re seeking groundbreaking innovations that reduce waste, conserve resources, and create lasting environmental and social impact. Learn more about how you can be part of the challenge.
Designed to enhance Mozambique’s food supply chains, Future Food Mozambique supported forward-thinking solutions in quality assurance, logistics, and performance-driven management. The challenge’s impact continues to strengthen local food systems.
FUTURE FOOD MOZAMBIQUE - Innovations in local food supply chain management solutions
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CIRCULAR BUSINESSES IMPACTING THE BLUE ECONOMY AND BEYOND 2024
The Circular Innovation Challenge 2024 is redefining how we produce, consume, and manage resources. Be part of a movement that minimizes waste, conserves ecosystems, and enhances well-being. Learn more below.
FUTURE FOOD MOZAMBIQUE - Innovations in local food packaging solutions
The FutureFood Packaging Challenge helped drive innovation in locally produced packaging, funding solutions that improve transport efficiency, reduce post-harvest loss, and enhance product appeal for end consumers.
BUSINESS CIRCULAR INNOVATION CHALLENGE 2024
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CALLING FOR INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS TO ADDRESS WASTE CHALLENGES IN SOUTHERN AFRICA THROUGH CIRCULAR PRINCIPLES
The Business Circulatory Challenge 2024, hosted in partnership with SOLVE@Waterfront and the V&A Waterfront, called for innovative solutions tackling waste challenges in Southern Africa through circular economy principles. The challenge aimed to support businesses developing products, technologies, or services that reduce resource consumption, minimize waste, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Finalists had the opportunity to pitch their solutions to a panel of judges at the Market Systems Symposium 2024, gaining exposure to investors, industry leaders, and potential collaborators. The winner, eWaste Africa, received R200,000 in cash investment, a tailored mentorship and training package, and the chance to test their innovation at the V&A Waterfront, a high-visibility hub with over 26 million annual visitors.
CIRCULATORY CHALLENGE
eWaste Africa (Winner)
A Pietermaritzburg-based company tackling the growing issue of defunct solar panel waste, which is now classified as hazardous and banned from landfills in South Africa. Their innovative approach ensures that end-of-life photovoltaic (PV) panels do not become an environmental burden.
FINALISTS 2024
Leafline – A company producing washable and compostable hygiene products made from natural fiber liners sourced from cayenne pineapple leaves. Their solutions offer a sustainable alternative to disposable diapers, sanitary products, and other absorbent materials, which are major contributors to landfill waste
Nude Foods – South Africa’s first plastic-free wholefoods retailer, now expanding with circular economy-driven snack kiosks. Their model focuses on ethical sourcing, low-impact production, and supporting small-scale local producers, many of whom are women and youth entrepreneurs.
Zerocrete – A sustainable materials company integrating non-recyclable plastic waste and fabric into low-carbon cement alternatives. Their products are not only more durable than conventional concrete but also contribute to reducing carbon emissions. The company also leads education initiatives on sustainable materials and environmental impact.
FUTURE FOOD CHALLENGE MOZAMBIQUE
STRENGTHENING MOZAMBIQUES FOOD SYSTEMS THROUGH INNOVATION
The FutureFood Mozambique Challenges were launched to address critical gaps in Mozambique’s domestic food supply chain. Sponsored by the USAID Feed the Future Innovations in Agriculture (Inova) project, these challenge funds sought innovative, Mozambican-led solutions to improve supply chain efficiency and packaging quality. By supporting local enterprises with financial and technical assistance, these initiatives aimed to enhance food security, reduce reliance on imports, and improve the competitiveness of locally produced food products.
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The FutureFood Mozambique Challenge - Innovations in local food supply chain management solutions focused on innovations in supply chain management, encouraging solutions such as performance-based management strategies, digital tools for enterprise resource planning, and alternative distribution models like direct-to-consumer platforms.
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The FutureFood Challenge - Innovations in local food packaging solutions tackled food packaging, seeking improved post-harvest, transport, and retail packaging solutions that enhance product quality, minimize loss, and strengthen brand value in local markets.
Through a rigorous selection process, finalists pitched their solutions to a panel of industry experts at a high-profile event, receiving media coverage and direct exposure to investors and collaborators. Winning enterprises received tailored mentorship and funding to scale their innovations, ensuring lasting impact on Mozambique’s agricultural sector.
These challenge funds were designed not only to generate immediate solutions but also to drive long-term change in Mozambique’s food systems. By investing in local innovation, Vikāra helped equip businesses with the tools and resources to create resilient supply chains, develop high-quality packaging solutions, and elevate the competitiveness of Mozambican food products. The impact of these initiatives continues to be felt as businesses implement their solutions, strengthening food security and economic growth across the country.