HZero
HZero is the first innovation hub for LAC with a focus on Food Security and Nutrition (FSN), promoting disruptive and transformative innovation towards achieving Zero Hunger in the LAC region. HZero aims at strengthening local innovation ecosystems in FSN, building alliances between key stakeholders, catalyzing efforts and capacities, and facilitating resources with the aim of supporting innovations that create a positive impact in the territories of LAC. The hub was launched in 2021 and is managed by the WFP Country Office in Colombia.
We aim to strengthen local innovation ecosystems.
HZero objectives
Support and accelerate innovative solutions in FSN that empower and benefit communities, women, youth and children, smallholder farmers and migrants, by implementing innovation programs.
Foster FSN innovation at the territorial level, by facilitating linkages, knowledge exchange and resources to strengthen local
economies and markets.
Consolidate an innovation community in FSN in the LAC region, by promoting an innovation culture, facilitating exchanges and fostering collaboration among actors contributing to Zero Hunger.
Our unique value proposition
- We are part of the WFP global innovation network that has positively impacted the lives of more than 22 million people in 2022 alone by accelerating and scaling innovative solutions to fight hunger worldwide.
- We foster innovation in territories and promote culture, identities and diversity through an inclusive, community based and people-centered approach.
- We contribute to local innovation ecosystems, working hand in hand with local actors with extensive experience in supporting innovators and social entrepreneurs and convening multisectoral alliances for a Zero Hunger region.
Highlights
HZero launched the open call for the innovation program Acelera HZero 2022 – 2023. From more than 200 projects that applied throughout the region, 21 were selected to participate in the Innovation Bootcamp and present at the Pitch event. The 10 most innovative FSN projects from Colombia, Cuba, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala and Peru were selected to participate in a six-month acceleration phase, receiving tailored technical support, funding, mentorship and access to the WFP network.
HZero delivered the first edition of the WFP’s Innovation Bootcamps in the LAC region in 2021. 8 innovative food security solutions were selected for a journey of ideation, project design and innovation. After the Bootcamp, 4 of them received financial and technical support to scale their impact.
HZero supported the first Latin American Network of Innovation Agencies (RELAI)-INNPulsa open innovation challenge on enhancing traceability of agri-food chains, launched in February 2022.
HZero led FSN innovation events, bringing together key stakeholders. In addition, HZero created the regional network of WFP innovation focal points to identify priorities, promote an innovation culture and connect with local innovation ecosystems.
Thematic areas
- Sustainable and resilient food systems
- Nutrition and healthy diets
- Ancestral knowledge and territories
- Equitable livelihoods
- FSN assistance in emergencies
- Innovation in WFP programmes
Contact
Contact us at: [email protected]