InnovAction Challenge Closes with 1,000+ Applications from Across Latin America and the Caribbean

The InnovAction Challenge received 1,051 proposals from 1,312 entrepreneurs from 32 Latin American & Caribbean countries by the close of the submission period on February 28th. The Young Americas Business Trust (YABT), the Inter-American Foundation, and Summits of the Americas Secretariat thank each team of young entrepreneurs who took part in this regional innovation competition. Teams presented their ideas to solve local challenges caused by COVID-19, such as obstacles to doing business, unequal access to services, and increased gender-based violence. These entrepreneurs have participated in up to 34 free training sessions to date hosted by YABT, with distinguished international experts helping them refine their proposals. 

In the next phase of InnovAction, a selection committee will review the proposals and announce 20 finalists on May 1 through the IAF’s and YABT’s website and social media. All finalists will receive specialized training sessions, international mentors, a promotional campaign, and technical assistance prior to the InnovAction Challenge Finals in June 2021, which will be held virtually. Four winning teams will get a prize of USD $5,000 in seed capital and a variety of support services to turn their ideas into reality and advance regional recovery efforts from the grassroots.

For questions about the IAF’s work, contact Rebecca Nelson, Media Liaison: rnelson@iaf.gov, +1 (202) 683-7188