Every year presented in Iowa, this foremost international honor recognizes -- without regard to race, religion, nationality, or political beliefs -- the achievements of individuals who have advanced human development by improving the quality, quantity or availability of food in the world.
The $500,000 award recognizes contributions in any field involved in the world food supply including, but not limited to: plant, animal and soil science; food science and technology; nutrition; rural development; marketing; food processing and packaging; water and the environment; natural resource conservation; physical infrastructure; transportation, storage and distribution; special or extraordinary feeding programs; social organization and poverty elimination; economics and finance; policy analysis; and public advocacy.
The World Food Prize calls forth the global imperative to provide safe, affordable, nutritious, sustainable nutritious and equitable food for all. By honoring those who have worked successfully toward this goal, The Prize uplifts the work and reminds us all to be accomplished in the future.
Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for his work in global agriculture, envisioned a prize that would honor those who have made significant and measurable contributions to improving the world's food supply. Beyond recognizing these people for their personal accomplishments, Borlaug saw The Prize as a means of establishing role models who would inspire others. His vision was realized when The World Food Prize was created in 1986 with sponsorship by General Foods Corporation.
The name of the new Laureate(s) is announced in a special ceremony each spring. The Prize is presented each October on or around UN World Food Day (October 16) in a ceremony in the magnificent Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines. In addition to the cash award, the Laureate receives a sculpture designed by the noted artist and designer, Saul Bass.
Nomination Procedure Submit a Nomination How to Nominate Webinar
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The World Food Prize is implemented solely by the World Food Prize Foundation. Inquiries about any aspect of the nomination and selection process should be directed to:
Ellen Franzenburg
Director of Awards and Lectures
World Food Prize Foundation
100 Locust Street
Des Moines, Iowa, 50309 USA
+1 515-245-3793 (Office Phone)
efranzenburg@worldfoodprize.org