Driving Food Systems Innovation in Malawi

The Ireland-Malawi Agri-Food Systems Programme (IMAGRI) invites innovative proposals for its Research and Innovation Platform. We're seeking applied, solution-oriented projects that address critical constraints in Malawi's food system while promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and scalability.

This is your opportunity to turn research into real-world impact. Whether you're working on food safety systems, infrastructure solutions, or cutting-edge technology applications, we want to hear from you.

Who Can Apply:

• Universities and research organisations registered in Malawi

• Individuals affiliated with Malawian institutions

• Cross-sector collaborations with industry partners

What We Fund:

• Applied research projects that test practical solutions

• Innovations addressing food system bottlenecks

• Solutions with clear pathways to adoption and scaling

Three Thematic Areas, One Mission

1. Food Safety Systems

Maximum Funding: EUR 10,000

Support for technologies, systems, and data to strengthen Malawi's food safety regulatory framework. Projects should address fragmented regulation, limited infrastructure, and low awareness of food safety impacts.

2.Infrastructure

Maximum Funding: EUR 17,000

Collaborative solutions for infrastructure and information gaps in crop, soil, and animal health, hygiene management, water quality, and compliance testing. Address critical laboratory equipment needs and operational capacity.

Maximum Funding: EUR 13,000

Demonstrate practical applications of digital tools, databases, AI, and machine learning for food systems challenges. Leverage existing research capabilities and technology platforms.

3. Innovation and Technology

We're Looking For:

✓ Practical Solutions - Applied research with demonstrated utility, not just theory
✓ User Engagement - Active participation from producers, processors, cooperatives, and stakeholders
✓ Clear Adoption Pathways - Show us how your solution will be taken up beyond the grant period
✓ Collaborative Approach - Cross-sector partnerships that drive real change
✓ Inclusive Design - Solutions accessible to marginalised groups and the informal sector
✓ Scalability - Potential to expand impact beyond pilot phase

Priority Given To:

• Projects with ≥30% women team members (women-led projects especially encouraged)

• Collaborations with SMEs or policymakers

• Institutions in rural areas or led by underrepresented groups

• Projects including early-career researchers with mentorship plans

Important Dates

• 1 May 2026: Call launch

• 8 May 2026: Virtual Information Session- Zoom

• 12 June 2026: Full proposals due

• 30 June 2026: Peer Review Complete

• 17 July 2026: Award Decision Announced

• 30 September 2026: Project Start Date

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