Selection
What is the Selection Process?
Call for applications
Startups can apply to the Sustainable Coca Innovation Challenge for Colombia from 4 August to 3 September, 2023.
Startup Selection
All startups that apply will go through a selection process, and the selection committee will shortlist 10 solutions.
Acceleration Program
The 10 shortlisted innovators participate in a sponsored acceleration program that includes business training, technical assistance and access to on-the-ground experimentation with value chain actors.
Pitch Day
The 10 shortlisted innovators pitch their solutions to investors, industry experts, agribusinesses, scientists, governmental institutions and the media.
Post-Acceleration Support
Two winning startups will receive an equity-free grant up to $15,000 USD each and post-acceleration support for their growth through mentorship and opportunities for long-term collaboration with CGIAR and Rockstart.
How We Select Solutions
Applications are assessed by the Selection Committee, which includes CGIAR and external experts. Evaluations are based on specific criteria, rated on a scale of 1 to 5 — 1 being poor and 5 being excellent. The selection criteria are as follows:
• Business model. A defined strategy to generate revenue and achieve profitability. It encompasses the framework for how a product or service will be monetized. A well-defined business model demonstrates a clear plan for creating value, acquiring customers, and sustaining a profitable operation.
• Team. Coachable and passionate team with potential. Open to learning, adaptable and driven to make a positive impact. Embraces feedback, seeks growth and enjoys their work. Committed, collaborative, and resilient, they create a conducive environment for success.
• Market potential. Untapped opportunities and possibilities for growth and success within the cocoa market. It entails the ability to understand and leverage the Colombian cocoa value chain, effectively identifying gaps and introducing innovative solutions that can disrupt and create new avenues for business success.
• Traction. Validation and progress the startup has achieved beyond just an idea. It signifies tangible evidence that the business model works and resonates with users. Although significant sales may not be required, demonstrating an understanding of the target market and user needs is essential for gaining traction.
• Fit with the challenge. The proposed solution or business aligns with the geographies, criteria, and objectives of the funders, especially if the solutions are aligned with climate change mitigation and peacebuilding. It signifies the potential value the solution can bring and the degree to which it meets the program's goals. A strong fit indicates a high likelihood of success and mutual benefit for both the startup and the program.
Discover the 10 projects shortlisted for the Acceleration Program
Asociación de Cacaoteros de Valdivia "ASOCAVAL"
Asocaval is a pioneering association in the Valdivia-Antioquia region that brings together 77 cacao farmers who have chosen a path of change and sustainability. Originating from illicit crops, they now cultivate and harvest cocoa beans. Our dedication to responsible environmental, social, and economic practices is backed by quality certifications such as FAIRTRADE and BPA, ensuring excellence at every step. We market the highest-quality dried cocoa beans and create delicious cocoa transformation products, such as chocolate bars and table chocolate. Our commitment is to offer a unique flavor and a story of transformation in every bite.
Inversiones Santamaria CI ZOMAC SAS
Inversiones Santamaria, a family tradition of over 60 years in Hobo, Huila. We are dedicated to the cultivation, transformation, and marketing of fine cocoa with unique flavors and aromas. Our commitment is to bring the essence of our land to your palate. From exquisite cocoa nibs and couverture to irresistible chocolate bars and table chocolate, our purpose is for you to feel the passion in every detail and to convey our story and dedication in every product.
CSA Colombia
CSA Colombia, where city and rural families come together in a unique monthly subscription model. We support farmers by providing them with stable incomes that reduce the risks of monoculture, while in the city, we offer 100% organic, nutritious markets tailored to your needs. Our commitment doesn't end with the delivery of fresh and healthy food. We also offer personalized advice and support to help create these collectives and promote sustainable land use. CSA Colombia is a community that cultivates not only food but also human connections, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
Chocoguayabal
At Chocoguayabal, our passion is cocoa, and our commitment lies in the hands of local farmers in Valle del Cauca. From production to transformation and sales, every stage is carried out with the care and dedication that only local farmers can provide. Our cocoa is cultivated following agroecological principles, mature pods are meticulously selected, and fermentation is tailored to the variety, resulting in chocolate with unparalleled flavor, aroma, and digestibility. Beyond chocolate, at Chocoguayabal, we promote social and solidarity economics, contributing to the well-being of our local communities.
Delicias del Cacao - Chocolate Luvid
Delicias del Cacao, donde el sabor se mezcla con la esperanza. Nos dedicamos a la producción, transformación y comercialización de cacao, creando el exquisito Chocolate LUVID a partir de maíz cariaco y esencias. Generamos empleo directo e indirecto para personas que han sido víctimas del conflicto armado, mejorando sus condiciones económicas y brindándoles una oportunidad. Cultivamos nuestro propio cacao para asegurar calidad, sabor y presentación excepcionales en cada bocado. Delicias del Cacao es una historia de resiliencia y transformación, donde el cacao se convierte en un medio para unir corazones y reconstruir vidas. Descubre el sabor del cambio con Chocolate LUVID y apoya nuestro compromiso con la comunidad y la calidad excepcional..
Elena Chocolate
At Elena Chocolate Proyecto Autosustentable, in Mapiripán, Meta, where nature is reborn. In areas that were once used for illicit crops, today one of the world's finest cocoa with flavor and aroma flourishes. Our business model embraces sustainability at every step, from the production of fine flavor and aroma cocoa to the transformation and marketing of healthy chocolate bars, products from the rainforest, and cocoa paste or cocoa liquor. What we are most proud of is sharing our chocolate bars throughout the country, bringing a piece of regeneration and exquisite taste to every corner.
ReSelva
At ReSelva, where cocoa becomes an eco-dream of sustainability. In the heart of the Magdalena Medio, our cocoa and single-origin chocolate project is dedicated to cultivating and transforming cocoa using agroforestry techniques that protect the rich wildlife of the tropical rainforest in the region. Our mission is to reduce rural poverty and provide genuine alternatives to illicit economic activities, which often lead to violence in these areas. Each of our chocolate bars is a piece of Colombia, a message of conservation for our country's fauna and flora. In our flavors, you'll discover the richness of Colombian nature and the hope for a better future.
Muya Cosmética
At Muya Cosmetics, where beauty meets sustainability, our passion lies in crafting natural cosmetics made from ingredients like cocoa, packaged innovatively with a strong commitment to sustainability. We replace plastic and polluting materials in over 80% of our packaging with sugarcane bagasse, contributing to a cleaner and healthier future. Furthermore, we prioritize sourcing cocoa from local suppliers to reduce our carbon footprint, ensuring that 100% of our raw materials are environmentally friendly.
Asoprocam
At Asoprocam, in Miraflores, Guaviare, where cocoa becomes the engine of change. Our association has a clear objective: to support cocoa producers as a strategy for replacing illicit crops, promoting reforestation in the Amazon, and improving the quality of life for rural communities. At Asoprocam, we believe in rural development and the revitalization of the Amazon. We generate income that transforms the economy of cocoa-producing families while embracing a sustainable option that contributes to reforesting our territory, mitigating the damage to the Amazon.
Asproabelen
At ASPROABELEN, where cocoa is cultivated with passion and exported with purpose. Located in Belén de los Andaquíes, we are an association committed to the cultivation and harvesting of cocoa for the export of dried cocoa beans, destined for Germany. Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering. We have quality seals that highlight our dedication to environmental protection. At ASPROABELEN, cocoa is not just a business; it's a promise of sustainability. Our agro-environmental focus and vision of solidarity economics unite us on a path of mutual growth, where each cocoa bean represents a link in the chain of prosperity.