NEW TECH FOODS

The Taylor Geospatial Institute (TGI) has launched a funding initiative offering up to $2 million for projects using geospatial technology to tackle global food security and sustainable agriculture challenges.

The Geospatial Innovation for Food Security Challenge (GIFS) is open to collaborations between industry, non-profit organisations and academic researchers. Successful teams could receive up to $550,000 each to develop and implement solutions in areas such as:

• Advanced modelling for crop shifting in response to climate and market changes

• Measurement, monitoring, reporting and verification (MMRV) to improve nitrogen use efficiency and reduce environmental impact

• Supply chain modelling to boost resilience in the agri-food sector and address food insecurity

Rachel Opitz, programme manager for the challenge, said: “Food security is one of the most pressing global challenges of our time, and geospatial technology is uniquely positioned to drive solutions. Through this challenge, we’re bringing together diverse expertise to accelerate innovations that can have a measurable impact – locally, nationally and globally.”

Applications are open until 31 October. Proposals must demonstrate both technological innovation and real-world impact, and each team must include at least one academic partner alongside an industry or non-profit organisation.

The initiative forms part of TGI’s broader mission to position the St Louis region as a global hub for geospatial research and innovation, with a focus on addressing critical societal needs.