Deadline: 25-Mar-2026
The World Food Prize Foundation has launched the Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP) initiative to recognize 40 outstanding individuals transforming global food systems through innovation, leadership, and measurable impact. Selected pioneers will be honored at the 2026 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa. Nominations close on March 25, 2026, and self-nominations are not allowed.
What is the Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP) Initiative?
The Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP) initiative is a global recognition program launched in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the World Food Prize Foundation.
The initiative honors individuals who are actively transforming agri-food systems through innovation, leadership, and sustainable impact. It recognizes pioneers working across agriculture, food security, sustainability, research, entrepreneurship, and policy.
In 2026, 40 pioneers will be selected to commemorate four decades of advancing global food security and agricultural innovation.
About the World Food Prize Foundation
The World Food Prize Foundation is an international organization committed to improving the quality, quantity, and availability of food worldwide. Through initiatives like TAP, the Foundation amplifies leadership and innovation in agriculture and food systems.
Focus Areas and Selection Criteria
Nominees must demonstrate excellence in one or more of the following areas:
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Innovation in agri-food systems
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Measurable impact on productivity, sustainability, or inclusiveness
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Leadership in collaborative environments
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Cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary collaboration
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Persistence and resilience in overcoming challenges
The initiative values individuals contributing to stronger, more resilient, and inclusive food systems at local, national, or global levels.
Who is Eligible?
The TAP initiative is open to individuals:
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Of any age
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From any country
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Across any professional or academic background
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Actively engaged in food and agriculture-related fields
Eligible candidates may work in research, farming, agribusiness, public policy, food technology, sustainability, development, or related sectors.
Self-nominations are not permitted.
Why This Recognition Matters
Global food systems face complex challenges including climate change, food insecurity, inequity, and sustainability pressures. Recognizing agri-food pioneers:
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Elevates transformative solutions
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Encourages cross-sector collaboration
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Amplifies impactful stories
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Inspires future innovation in agriculture and food security
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Strengthens global networks in the agri-food sector
The TAP initiative highlights individuals whose work is shaping the future of food systems worldwide.
What Do Selected Pioneers Receive?
The 40 selected pioneers in 2026 will:
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Be recognized globally as Top Agri-food Pioneers
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Be featured at the 2026 Borlaug Dialogue
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Gain international visibility among agri-food leaders
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Connect with policymakers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors
Event Location
2026 Borlaug Dialogue
Des Moines, Iowa, United States
This platform provides global exposure and opportunities for collaboration.
How to Nominate a Candidate
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Ensure the nominee is actively contributing to food and agriculture systems and meets the selection criteria.
Step 2: Complete the Nomination Form
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A short nomination form (approximately 15 minutes to complete)
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Provide key details about the nominee’s achievements and impact
Step 3: Submit Before the Deadline
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Submission Deadline: March 25, 2026
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Accepted Languages: English, French, Spanish
Self-nominations will not be considered.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Attempting to self-nominate
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Submitting incomplete nomination forms
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Failing to clearly demonstrate measurable impact
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Not aligning achievements with the initiative’s focus areas
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Missing the March 25, 2026 deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many pioneers will be selected in 2026?
Forty individuals will be selected to mark the Foundation’s 40th anniversary.
2. Is there an age limit?
No. Individuals of any age may be nominated.
3. Can someone nominate themselves?
No. Self-nominations are not permitted.
4. What fields are eligible?
Any field related to food and agriculture, including research, policy, entrepreneurship, farming, sustainability, and development.
5. Where will selected pioneers be recognized?
At the 2026 Borlaug Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa.
6. What languages are accepted for nominations?
English, French, and Spanish.
7. What is the nomination deadline?
March 25, 2026.
Conclusion
The Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP) 2026 initiative celebrates individuals driving meaningful change in global food systems. By recognizing innovation, leadership, and measurable impact, the World Food Prize Foundation continues its mission to advance food security and agricultural sustainability. Institutions and individuals are encouraged to nominate deserving candidates before March 25, 2026, to spotlight transformative leadership shaping the future of food.
For more information, visit The World Food Prize Foundation.
