The World Food Forum (WFF) Transformative Research Challenge 2026 is a unique opportunity for young researchers to advance applied research toward real-world agrifood solutions, with a chance to receive USD 10,000 in research funding. The application deadline is rolling, so interested individuals should check the website for the latest information. By applying for this challenge, young researchers can gain valuable experience, networking opportunities, and funding to take their projects to the next level.
About the Opportunity
The World Food Forum (WFF) is a global movement that aims to bring together youth from around the world to shape the future of food and agriculture. The WFF Transformative Research Challenge is a key component of this movement, providing a platform for young researchers to develop and showcase their innovative solutions to pressing agrifood challenges. By supporting youth-led research projects, the WFF aims to promote sustainable agriculture, improve food security, and enhance the livelihoods of rural communities, which is particularly important for Africans who are disproportionately affected by food insecurity and poverty.
The WFF Transformative Research Challenge is designed to empower teams of young researchers to advance applied research toward real-world agrifood solutions. The challenge focuses on projects that have already demonstrated an initial proof of concept, through lab tests, controlled experiments, or small-scale validation, and are looking to further strengthen evidence, refine their solution, and prepare for real-world piloting. By providing scientific mentorship, practical masterclasses, and expert feedback, the WFF aims to help young researchers move their work from “it works” to “it is ready to pilot”, and ultimately contribute to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).
The WFF Transformative Research Challenge is a unique opportunity for young African researchers to develop their skills, gain international recognition, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions to address the continent’s food security challenges. By participating in the challenge, young researchers can gain access to a global network of peers, mentors, and experts, and learn from their experiences and best practices. Furthermore, the challenge can help to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation in the agrifood sector, which is critical for Africa’s economic development and growth.
Who Can Apply
The WFF Transformative Research Challenge is open to teams of young researchers from around the world, with a focus on youth-led projects that have the potential to drive positive change in the agrifood sector.
- Age: The project must be led by individuals between the ages of 18 and 35, with relevant technical or research expertise.
- Project type: The project must be applied and research-led, with a tested proof of concept, and have the potential to drive positive change in the agrifood sector.
- Technology readiness level: The project must have a technology readiness level of 3-5, meaning that it has been lab-tested or validated in controlled conditions.
- Evidence-based: The project must be evidence-based, with data, observations, or test results that demonstrate its potential impact and effectiveness.
What You Will Gain
By participating in the WFF Transformative Research Challenge, young researchers can gain a range of benefits that can help to advance their careers and projects.
- Scientific mentorship: Participants will receive scientific mentorship and guidance from experienced researchers and experts in the agrifood sector.
- Practical masterclasses: Participants will have access to practical masterclasses and training sessions that can help to build their skills and knowledge.
- Expert feedback: Participants will receive expert feedback and guidance on their projects, which can help to identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations for future development.
- Research funding: The winning team will receive USD 10,000 in research funding to support the further development of their project.
- Networking opportunities: Participants will have the opportunity to network with other young researchers, experts, and stakeholders in the agrifood sector, which can help to build collaborations and partnerships.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity. Deadline: Rolling / Check website for deadline. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to prepare and submit a strong proposal.
How to Apply for World Food Forum (WFF) Transformative Research Challenge 2026 for young Researchers (USD 10 000 in research funding)
To apply for the WFF Transformative Research Challenge, interested teams should follow these steps: first, review the eligibility criteria and ensure that your project meets the requirements. Next, prepare a strong proposal that outlines your project’s objectives, methods, and expected outcomes, as well as its potential impact and scalability. Finally, submit your proposal through the online application portal, which can be accessed through the WFF website.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The WFF Transformative Research Challenge is a unique opportunity for young researchers to advance their projects and contribute to the development of innovative solutions to address the world’s food security challenges. By applying for this challenge, young researchers can gain valuable experience, networking opportunities, and funding to take their projects to the next level. So, don’t miss this chance to shape the future of food and agriculture – apply now and take the first step towards making a positive impact in the agrifood sector!
