INCiTiS-FOOD Open Call: Opportunities Await
INCiTiS-FOOD, an EU-funded project, has launched its first Open Call for Local Innovation Hubs (LIHs) with the aim of reinforcing multi-actor collaborations, promoting and scaling up the solutions developed within the project, and boosting the overall impact of INCiTiS-FOOD.
The project focuses on supporting the implementation and fostering the development of sustainable agri-food technologies across six African countries: Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Cameroon, and Gabon. INCiTiS-FOOD is reshaping agricultural practices through innovative, circular approaches that emphasise resource efficiency and environmental sustainability. Operating in urban and periurban areas, the project addresses the unique challenges of these densely populated regions by co-developing and implementing technologies such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and insect farming. These solutions are particularly well-suited for urban and periurban settings, as they require minimal space yet produce sufficient food to meet local needs. By recycling resources and reducing waste, INCiTiS-FOOD offers sustainable ways to feed growing urban populations.
About the Open Call for Local Innovation Hubs
Launched on the 23rd of December 2024 with the submission open until the 20th of March 2025, the Open Call invites small consortia of a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 3 legal entities to come together and propose ideas that align with INCiTiS-FOOD’s vision. These consortia can consist of civil society organisations (CSOs), including non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and cooperatives, as well as secondary schools and tertiary institutions, start-ups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Consortia is asked to co-create and implement innovative solutions tailored to sustainable and circular food systems, fostering collaboration and addressing local food system challenges. The eight most successful Local Innovation Hubs will receive funding of up to 117,500€.
Eligibility, Funding, and Areas of Interest
To ensure clarity and fairness, the Open Call follows specific guidelines.
- English is the official language for submissions, meaning applications must be written in English; those in other languages will not be considered.
- Proposals should align with the goals of the INCiTiS-FOOD project and respond to the needs of local stakeholders. Applicants are encouraged to explore innovative solutions in areas such as:
- Aquaponics and aquaculture – integration of fish farming and plant cultivation
- Hydroponics and bioponics – exploring environmentally friendly methods of plant growth
- Insect farming – sustainable protein production
- Other areas, such as local pest management, snail and rabbit farming, urban waste recovery, and alternative animal feed production.
Proposals are not limited to the above-mentioned thematic areas, and Local Innovation Hubs are welcome to submit proposals based on their own ideas, as long as they align with the Open Call topic and the objectives of the INCiTiS-FOOD project.
- All activities must comply with EU funding regulations to prevent any instance of double funding.
- Successful projects are expected to be completed within a 12-month timeframe.
- The maximum amount of funding that a Local Innovation Hub can receive via the INCiTiS-FOOD Open Call is 117,500€ and no member of the consortium can receive more than 58,750€.
Submission Details
All applications must be submitted by 20th March 2025, at 17:00 CET via the INCiTiS-FOOD Open Call Hub. Comprehensive resources, including application guides, are available on the INCiTiS-FOOD official website to help you through the process.
Please note that each consortium is allowed only one proposal, so submit it carefully and thoughtfully!
Join the Webinar
Save the date! On March 5th at 11:00 AM CET, INCiTiS-FOOD will host an informative webinar to provide insights into its Open Call and answer all your questions.
During the session, participants will gain an overview of the INCiTiS-FOOD project, including insights into its Living Labs. The webinar will also cover a detailed explanation of the application process and eligibility criteria for the Open Call. Furthermore, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the project team.
Registration is free and open to all interested parties. Sign up now via our Zoom link!