The World Food Programme (WFP), in collaboration with Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forests and Environment, has launched the implementation phase of the Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator (AFCIA) in Kathmandu on 8 June 2026, according to a press release. The initiative aims to strengthen climate resilience and food security across the country. It will support local start-ups developing solutions across the food system. These include solar-powered irrigation, clean energy, digital advisory platforms for farmers, satellite-based insurance, climate data tools, and value chain innovations for smallholders. The accelerator targets communities facing floods, droughts, heatwaves, and extreme weather.
As part of the global AFCIA programme, WFP launched an open call for applications in September 2025, receiving 278 submissions. Four Nepali startups — aQysta Nepal, DV Excellus, Gham Power, and PlantSat — were selected as finalists. They participated in an innovation bootcamp in Munich in January 2026. With the programme now in its in-country phase, the innovators begin a nine-month acceleration journey. They will receive technical support, mentorship, and funding to refine their solutions.
The launch event gathered representatives from government, development partners, academia, and the private sector. Discussions focused on strengthening collaboration, leveraging investment, and accelerating the shift from pilot projects to large-scale impact. The AFCIA programme adopts a holistic approach to the food system, covering natural resource management, agricultural production, distribution, and consumption. It seeks to strengthen local capacity and foster partnerships aligned with Zero Hunger (SDG 2). The programme bridges gaps between current practices and climate-resilient outcomes.
“Innovation plays a critical role in helping communities adapt to the unprecedented challenges posed by climate shocks,” said Riaz Lodhi, WFP Nepal Country Director. He noted that supporting local solutions can build more resilient food systems across Nepal. Dr. Govinda Prasad Sharma, Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture, Forests and Environment, said the government recognizes the urgent need to scale climate adaptation solutions. He emphasized empowering innovators through partnerships with WFP. British Ambassador Rob Fenn described Nepal as “a living laboratory for climate adaptation and innovation.”
The four selected innovators offer distinct solutions for Nepali farmers:
- aQysta Nepal — a digitized organic value chain platform offering pay-after-harvest access to organic inputs.
- DV Excellus — a digital platform delivering inclusive financial and agricultural services to smallholders.
- PlantSat — a satellite-based parametric insurance solution for rice and sugarcane farmers in the Terai region.
- Gham Power Nepal — a digital agriculture solution helping Himalayan farmers adapt to climate change.
The AFCIA programme is part of a broader global effort supported by the Adaptation Fund to accelerate innovation for communities most vulnerable to climate impacts.