World Food Prize
The World Food Prize is the foremost international award recognizing the accomplishments of individuals who have advanced human development by improving the quality, quantity, or availability of food in the world.
The World Food Prize is a $500,000 award formally presented at the Laureate Award Ceremony in mid-October, on or around World Food Day, in conjunction with the Borlaug Dialogue international symposium.
Nomination Procedure Submit a Nomination
Norman E. Borlaug Award for Field Research and Application, Endowed by The Rockefeller Foundation
Endowed by The Rockefeller Foundation, this is a $10,000 award to be presented annually to a young extension worker, research scientist, development professional or other individual who best emulates the dedication, perseverance, and innovation demonstrated by Dr. Norman Borlaug while working in the field with farmers in Mexico in the 1940s and '50s. The award will be presented every October in Des Moines, Iowa, by the World Food Prize Foundation.
This award will recognize exceptional, science-based achievement in international agriculture and food production by an individual under 40 who has clearly demonstrated intellectual courage, stamina, and determination in the fight to eliminate global hunger and poverty.
Nomination Procedure Submit a Nomination
Norman E. Borlaug Medallion
The Norman E. Borlaug Medallion was created to recognize world leaders and institutions whose actions have benefited mankind but who would not normally be considered for the World Food Prize, which is primarily awarded to science, policy, and development experts for a specific, exceptionally significant, individual achievement along the full range of the food production and distribution chain.
Top Agri-food Pioneers
Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP) features pioneers of any age, background or career focus working in fields related to food or agriculture. The annual cohort is honored at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue each October, building a network of trailblazers to facilitate co-learning and collaboration across food systems.
Learn More Previous TAP Recipients
Innovate for Impact Challenge
Unveiled at the 2024 Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, the Innovate for Impact Challenge invites forward-thinking entrepreneurs from around the globe to present breakthrough technologies aimed at revolutionizing agriculture. This initiative aligns with the World Food Prize Foundation’s mission to elevate innovations and inspire action toward alleviating global hunger.
Youth Awards
The World Food Prize Foundation recognizes youth involved in Foundation programs, including the Borlaug-Ruan International Internship, USDA Wallace-Carver Fellowship and Global Challenge research paper.
Educator Award
In order to acknowledge committed implementing partners, including coordinators and educators, as well as inspire partners to continue working with youth, the World Food Prize Foundation awards the Inspiring the Next Generation Award each year.
Iowa SHARES Award
The World Food Prize Foundation established the Robert D. Ray Iowa SHARES Humanitarian Award in 2013 to honor the former Iowa Governor on his 85th birthday. The award recognizes an Iowan who has provided significant leadership in confronting hunger and alleviating human suffering either at home or abroad, much as Governor Ray did on behalf of Asian refugees during his time in office.