We are so excited and proud to have been selected as the winner of the 2023 Ashoka Changemakers Challenge for Africa and the Middle East! 

The process of evaluation and presentation has given us a fantastic opportunity to take a really deep look at the impact FarmSmarter will have on farming communities as we grow alongside them. By providing easy to implement suggestions for improved sustainable farming to our farmer users, the smallholder community will be pushed to the forefront as Green Changemakers in the agriculture sector and food supply chain. We are conscious that farmers need to see increased profitability resulting from their efforts in adopting sustainable practices, and FarmSmarter aims to ensure their efforts are rewarded by giving access to new markets and realise enhanced value for their sustainably produced crops.

The Ashoka and HSBC ‘Green Changemakers Challenge’ is a global innovation challenge open to changemakers with solutions that are equipping others with the mindset and capabilities to contribute towards building a sustainable and equitable world. The challenge aims to support those individuals helping people and communities find the role they can play in tackling the climate crisis and making sure no one is left out of this process. The Green Changemaker Judges agree that FarmSmarter has great potential to influence change: “The judges were impressed by the great connection and commitment you had in your target community! They believed you really understood the problems you are aiming to tackle and showed a genuine bond with your community. They appreciated your emphasis on the super important role of ambassadors as Green changemaking activators and how they bring about noticeable impact, and through your shared stories. FarmSmarter app was considered quite innovative, especially with your use of AI, and with a great potential for growth and your seamless integration of digital innovation, offering practical and scalable solutions.

In co-designing the app with farmers, FarmSmarter continues close involvement of farming communities, liaising with farming associations to empower young & women farmers in advocating for change. ‘FarmSmarter ambassadors’, based on experience & engagement, will encourage women as ambassadors for sustainable and regenerative farming, breaking down cultural barriers to information & celebrating local lost regen-farming traditions.

Visit: Ashoka Challenge to find out more.