Staff Writer
Capricorn Foundation and its partners have launched the Agripreneurial Innovation Challenge. This is a national initiative aimed at supporting job creation and innovation in Namibia’s agriculture sector.
The challenge is run in partnership with Basecamp Business Incubator, Network for Global Innovation and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
The programme provides a platform for early-stage innovators and entrepreneurs to test ideas.
It also offers mentorship and support to develop solutions that address unemployment, food security and sustainability.
The challenge will run for four months. It combines learning, mentorship and practical support. It aims to equip participants with skills to develop solutions for challenges in the agriculture sector.
The initiative follows the foundation’s focus on open innovation to address social and economic challenges.
It builds on previous programmes such as the Food Waste Challenges in 2023 and 2024 and the Water and Energy Efficiency Challenge in 2025. These programmes supported solutions to reduce food loss and improve efficiency in food systems.
Head of marketing and communication at Capricorn Asset Management and member of the Capricorn Foundation’s management committee, Tarina Biewenga, said the focus is on creating access for entrepreneurs.
“We believe strongly in the potential that exists within our communities. Through platforms like the Agripreneurial Innovation Challenge, we are opening doors for innovators to turn ideas into practical, job-creating solutions that strengthen food systems and support inclusive economic growth,” she said.
Fred Walti, chief executive officer of the Network for Global Innovation, said the initiative shows the role of partnerships.
“The challenge reflects the power of strong partnerships. Working alongside the Capricorn Foundation, UNIDO, Basecamp and other key stakeholders, we are creating a platform that connects local entrepreneurial talent with the support, networks and opportunities needed to build sustainable businesses.
Namibia has immense potential, and through this collaboration, we aim to translate innovation into real impact, driving job creation, strengthening food systems and enabling scalable solutions that can extend beyond Namibia’s borders,” he said.
