Transformative Research Challenge

About

The Transformative Research Challenge, organized by the World Food Forum, invites young researchers aged 18-35 to collaborate in teams and develop innovative solutions for agrifood systems, with opportunities for capacity building, networking, and funding, culminating in a prestigious event at FAO headquarters in Rome.

Benefits

• ℹ️ Benefit Information
  All shortlisted teams will receive
• 🎓Capacity Development
  Shortlisted teams will receive expert guidance through virtual masterclasses and dedicated office hours with experts in the field to help refine and develop their Concept Notes into research proposals.
• 🤝Networking Opportunities
  Shortlisted teams will have the opportunity to connect with a global network of young leaders, agrifood experts and representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as the United Nations.
• 🎤Visibility
  The WFF Youth Initiative provides a platform for young innovators to showcase their innovative research ideas and approaches to a global audience.
• ℹ️ Benefit Information
  Finalist teams will receive:
• 🎓Presentation Training
  Each team will be supported with training to effectively present their research proposals at the WFF flagship event, taking place at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, from 13–17 October 2025.
• 💰Funded Participation
  Two finalist teams will be selected per prize category. Each team must nominate one representative to attend the flagship event in Rome, with travel and accommodation covered.
• 🎓TRC Certificate of Achievement
  TRC certificate of achievement.
• 🎤Visibility
  Finalist teams will be featured on the WFF Youth Initiative website and social media channels.
• ℹ️ Benefit Information
  General prizes for the finalists and winners of the TRC:
• 🎤Publication of Research Finding
  Publication of research finding on the WFF Youth Initiative website.
• 🎓TRC Award and Certificate
  TRC award and certificate.
• 🛠️ Opportunity to Apply for the WFF Youth Food Lab Incubator Programme
  Opportunity to apply for the WFF Youth Food Lab incubator programme.

Eligibility Criteria

• Teams of 3-5 individuals aged 18-35
• At least one member must hold a bachelor's degree in agrifood systems or related fields
• FAO employees and their families are ineligible
• Original works only, with all authors listed
• Team members cannot be changed after submission

Target Sector

Agrifood Systems

Target Location

Global