Submissions open for Transformative Research Challenge

The Transformative Research Challenge (TRC) by the World Food Forum supports youth-led research projects that use public data, AI, and advanced analytics to improve food security systems. It targets solutions with an existing proof of concept (TRL 3–5) and helps teams refine, validate, and scale their innovations. Winners receive up to USD 10,000 plus additional funding, along with mentorship, training, and global exposure.

Overview of the Challenge

The Transformative Research Challenge is a global innovation competition designed to support applied, evidence-based agrifood research led by young researchers.

It focuses on transforming early-stage solutions into real-world, scalable applications that strengthen food security systems using:

• Public data
• Artificial intelligence (AI)
• Machine learning (ML)
• Advanced analytics

Key Objectives

The challenge aims to bridge the gap between research and real-world implementation.

Core objectives include:

• Strengthening food security monitoring and decision-making
• Promoting data-driven agricultural innovation
• Supporting youth-led applied research
• Advancing AI and analytics in agrifood systems
• Preparing solutions for real-world piloting
• Building scientific evidence and validation

Key Focus Areas

Projects must align with advanced research and data-driven innovation in food systems.

1. Alternative and High-Frequency Data Use

• Satellite data
• Climate and weather datasets
• Market and price data
• Mobile or sensor-based data

2. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

• Predictive analytics for food security
• Risk modeling and forecasting
• Automated decision-support systems

3. Human-AI Collaboration

• AI-assisted decision-making tools
• Integration of human expertise with analytics
• User-friendly data platforms

4. Monitoring and Early Warning Systems

• Food insecurity detection
• Crisis prediction models
• Real-time data insights

5. Validation and Performance Assessment

• Scientific testing and evaluation
• Data validation methods
• Measuring impact and accuracy

What is Technology Readiness Level (TRL 3–5)?

Projects must demonstrate an early but tested stage of development.

• TRL 3: Experimental proof of concept
• TRL 4: Technology validated in lab
• TRL 5: Technology validated in relevant environment

This ensures projects are beyond idea stage and ready for refinement and scaling.

Funding and Benefits

The programme offers both financial and non-financial support.

Financial support:

• Up to USD 10,000 for winning teams
• Additional USD 10,000 for the overall winner

Non-financial benefits:

• Mentorship from global experts
• Masterclasses and technical training
• Research design and validation support
• Global visibility and recognition
• Networking opportunities
• Potential incubation via Youth Food Lab

Who is Eligible?

The challenge targets youth researchers with strong technical or research backgrounds.

Eligibility criteria:

• Age: 18–35 years
• Must be part of a youth-led team
• Must have relevant research or technical expertise
• Project must be research-driven and applied

Project requirements:

• Must demonstrate proof of concept (TRL 3–5)
• Must include supporting evidence:
  • Data
  • Observations
  • Experimental results

What Type of Projects Are Supported?

The challenge supports applied innovations in food security.

Examples include:

• AI models predicting food shortages
• Data-driven early warning systems
• Climate impact analysis on agriculture
• Smart tools for farmers and policymakers
• Digital platforms for food system monitoring

Programme Structure

The TRC is structured to help teams refine and scale their solutions.

Key stages:

1. Application and Selection

• Teams submit research-based proposals
• Projects evaluated on innovation, feasibility, and impact

2. Semi-Finalist Support

• Mentorship and expert guidance
• Masterclasses and technical training
• Support in improving research design

3. Research-to-Impact Proposal

• Teams develop a structured plan for scaling and piloting
• Focus on validation, feasibility, and real-world application

4. Final Selection and Awards

• Top teams receive funding and recognition
• Opportunities for further development and incubation

Why This Challenge Matters

The TRC addresses global food security challenges through innovation and youth leadership.

Key impacts:

• Strengthens global food systems using data and AI
• Encourages evidence-based policymaking
• Supports early-stage scientific innovation
• Builds capacity of young researchers
• Promotes responsible use of data and AI
• Enhances early warning and crisis response systems

How It Works / Application Process

Step-by-step process:

• Identify a food security challenge
• Develop a data-driven research solution
• Ensure project meets TRL 3–5 requirements
• Compile supporting evidence (data, results, testing)
• Submit application to TRC
• If selected, participate in mentorship and training
• Develop Research-to-Impact proposal
• Compete for final funding and recognition

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Eligibility mistakes:

• Submitting idea-stage projects without proof of concept
• Not meeting age or team requirements

Technical mistakes:

• Weak use of data or analytics
• Lack of validation or testing evidence

Proposal mistakes:

• Unclear real-world application
• Overly theoretical or academic approach
• Missing scalability pathway

Tips for Strong Applications

• Clearly define the food security problem
• Use strong datasets and analytical methods
• Demonstrate tested proof of concept
• Show real-world application potential
• Include measurable outcomes and validation plan
• Highlight innovation in AI or data usage
• Focus on scalability and impact

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Transformative Research Challenge?

It is a global competition supporting youth-led research projects that use data and AI to improve food security systems.

Who can apply?

Youth aged 18–35 with research or technical expertise, working in teams.

What stage should the project be at?

Projects must have a tested proof of concept (TRL 3–5).

What funding is available?

Up to USD 10,000 for winners, plus an additional USD 10,000 for the overall winner.

What support is provided?

Mentorship, training, masterclasses, networking, and potential incubation support.

What type of solutions are expected?

Data-driven, AI-enabled, research-based solutions for food security challenges.

What is the main goal of the programme?

To transform early-stage research into scalable, real-world solutions for global food systems.

Conclusion

The Transformative Research Challenge by the World Food Forum is a high-impact opportunity for young researchers to advance data-driven innovations in food security. By combining funding, mentorship, and global exposure, it helps transform promising research into scalable solutions that can strengthen food systems and improve decision-making worldwide.