The BMO Generation Regen Challenge 2026 is a major funding opportunity for young leaders driving regenerative and sustainable agriculture across Canada and the United States. Presented by BMO and announced at the One Young World Summit, the challenge supports innovative non-profits and social enterprises working to restore ecosystems, strengthen food systems, and build climate-resilient farming communities.
Selected innovators will receive funding and global exposure, including support to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, where they will connect with global leaders, investors, and fellow changemakers.
About the Generation Regen Challenge
Agriculture plays a critical role in economic stability, employment, and global food security in both Canada and the United States. As climate pressures grow, regenerative agriculture has emerged as a powerful solution, restoring soil health, improving water systems, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring long-term farm resilience.
The Generation Regen Challenge was created to accelerate this transition by backing young leaders who are applying regenerative and sustainable practices to real-world agricultural challenges. Through targeted funding and international visibility, the challenge helps scale solutions that nourish the land while feeding communities more equitably.
Also Apply For: World Press Photo Contest 2026 (Win Up to €11,000)
Focus Areas
Projects supported under the Generation Regen Challenge should address one or more of the following areas:
- Local Farming Systems – Improving productivity, sustainability, and climate resilience
- Soil Health – Enhancing carbon sequestration, water retention, and soil functionality
- Animal Welfare – Advancing ethical treatment of livestock and impacted wildlife
- Biodiversity Protection – Restoring and enhancing on-farm ecosystems
- Water Stewardship – Promoting healthier watersheds and responsible water use
- Crop Rotation & Diversity – Strengthening soil fertility and reducing pest pressure
- Indigenous & Cultural Practices – Supporting First Nations, Inuit, Métis, and Native American agricultural knowledge
- Food Security Systems – Expanding access to safe, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food
Funding and Opportunities
The challenge will distribute up to $200,000 to selected non-profits and social enterprises. Winners and finalists also benefit from:
- Global visibility through the One Young World network
- Funded participation at the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town
- Access to a powerful community of sustainability leaders and partners
- Opportunities to scale and strengthen impact-driven agricultural solutions
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Generation Regen Challenge 2026, applicants must:
- Be 18–35 years old
- Lead a non-profit, charity, or social enterprise
- Have an organization registered in Canada or the United States
- Canadian non-profit or charity
- U.S. 501(c)(3) organization
- Social enterprise (100% of funds must support a social-purpose project)
- Have an organization registered for at least one year by 23 February 2026
- Propose a project focused on Canada and/or the U.S.
- Submit a project that can be delivered by the applying organization
Key Dates
- Applications Open: 5 December 2025
- Application Deadline: 23 February 2026
- Challenge Announcement: 2026
- One Young World Summit: 2026, Cape Town, South Africa
About BMO
BMO is a leading financial institution committed to sustainability, economic growth, and community resilience. Through initiatives like the Generation Regen Challenge, BMO supports innovation that drives a sustainable future and stronger food systems across North America.
For more information, visit the BMO Generation Regen Challenge.
