CircularEconomy4Colombia Innovation Challenge: Innovations' Booklet

The CircularEconomy4Colombia Innovation Challenge is an initiative designed to support Colombia’s transition toward a circular economy in the agri-food sector. Through this challenge, we have identified and supported early-stage, high-impact solutions, backed by science and adapted to the local context, that promote efficient resource use, waste reduction, and sustainable development in Colombia.

The call for applications attracted more than 400 submissions across Colombia and beyond. Following a rigorous selection process, 21 promising teams participated in an intensive in-person bootcamp, where they refined their business models, strengthened their solutions, and built lasting connections within Colombia’s circular economy ecosystem. From this group, 10 outstanding teams were selected for a three-month intensive acceleration program designed to help them scale their solutions, track key metrics, experiment, and refine their business models. Throughout the program, they received specialized mentorship, masterclasses from CGIAR scientists, expert guidance from partners, and tailored support to maximize their growth.

This booklet showcases the CircularEconomy4Colombia teams who participated in the innovation challenge featuring ten teams that advanced to the acceleration program cohort, as well as the eleven additional teams who participated in the Bootcamp, demonstrating the depth and potential of Colombia’s circular economy ecosystem.

Khader, T.; Loiseau, C.