The FAO Agriculture, through the World Food Forum (WFF), is inviting applications for the Transformative Research Challenge (TRC) 2026. This global competition supports young researchers with innovative ideas that can transform agrifood systems while addressing some of the world’s most pressing food security, environmental, and sustainability challenges.
Successful applicants can receive up to USD 10,000 in research funding, mentorship from international experts, capacity-building opportunities, and the chance to showcase their work at the World Food Forum 2026 in Rome, Italy.
About the FAO World Food Forum Transformative Research Challenge
The Transformative Research Challenge (TRC) is one of the flagship initiatives of the World Food Forum, designed to empower young researchers who are developing practical, science-based solutions for sustainable agriculture and food systems.
The competition focuses on applied research projects that have already demonstrated an initial proof of concept and are ready to move toward real-world implementation and piloting.
By supporting innovative research, the challenge aims to accelerate the transformation of global agrifood systems while promoting food security, environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and rural development.
Funding Benefits
Selected research teams will receive a range of benefits, including:
- Research funding of up to USD 10,000
- Expert mentorship from international specialists
- Capacity-building and professional development opportunities
- Global visibility through the World Food Forum network
- Opportunity to present research at the World Food Forum 2026 in Rome, Italy
- Networking with researchers, policymakers, innovators, and development organizations
- Recognition as one of the world’s leading young agricultural innovators
Research Prize Categories
Applicants may submit projects under one of the following challenge categories:
Forest Monitoring Innovation Prize
Supports innovative technologies and research that improve forest monitoring, conservation, and sustainable forest management.
Leveraging Public Data to Fight Hunger
Encourages research that uses publicly available data to develop solutions addressing hunger, food insecurity, and agricultural planning.
Unlocking Native Crops for Innovation in Protein Diversification
Focuses on research exploring indigenous and underutilized crops as sustainable sources of protein to improve nutrition and food system resilience.
Youth-led Research for Forest Restoration
Supports projects led by young researchers that contribute to restoring degraded forests and promoting ecosystem recovery.
Innovations for One Health-Driven Rural Transformation Prize
Recognizes interdisciplinary research integrating human, animal, and environmental health to strengthen sustainable rural development.
Who Can Apply?
The competition welcomes applications from young researchers worldwide who are developing innovative research projects related to agriculture, food systems, climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and rural development.
Applicants should have research projects that:
- Demonstrate an initial proof of concept.
- Are ready for pilot implementation.
- Address challenges facing global agrifood systems.
- Offer innovative and practical solutions.
- Contribute to sustainable development.
Eligible Research Areas
Research proposals may focus on areas including:
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Food Security
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Agricultural Innovation
- Forestry
- Environmental Conservation
- Biodiversity
- Rural Development
- Digital Agriculture
- Precision Agriculture
- Food Systems Transformation
- Agricultural Data Science
- Nutrition
- Indigenous Crops
- Water Resource Management
- One Health
- Ecosystem Restoration
Why Apply?
The FAO World Food Forum Transformative Research Challenge offers young researchers an exceptional opportunity to:
- Secure funding for innovative research.
- Gain international recognition.
- Receive mentorship from leading experts.
- Strengthen research and project management skills.
- Connect with global policymakers and researchers.
- Showcase research before an international audience.
- Advance solutions that contribute to sustainable agrifood systems.
The challenge is particularly valuable for researchers seeking to transform promising ideas into practical solutions with measurable impact.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should:
- Review the competition guidelines.
- Prepare a research proposal demonstrating proof of concept.
- Select the most appropriate prize category.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Applicants should ensure their proposals clearly explain the innovation, expected impact, implementation strategy, and contribution to sustainable agrifood systems.
Application Deadline
15 May 2026
Applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.
About the World Food Forum
The World Food Forum (WFF) is a global platform hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) that brings together young leaders, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and development partners to develop innovative solutions for transforming global agrifood systems.
Through initiatives such as the Transformative Research Challenge, the World Food Forum empowers young innovators to contribute toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems worldwide.
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