The World Food Prize Foundation has opened submissions for its 2026 Top Agri-food Pioneers (TAP), an international initiative recognizing 40 innovators who are advancing practical, science-driven solutions to strengthen food and nutrition security worldwide. This year’s cohort coincides with the 40th anniversary of the World Food Prize, marking a milestone in the Foundation’s global efforts to improve food systems.
TAP honors individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and career fields who demonstrate bold ideas, collaborative leadership, and measurable impact in agriculture and food systems. The program brings together a diverse range of expertise, including farmers, scientists, entrepreneurs, educators, and policy leaders, all committed to improving food and nutrition security on a global scale.
Mashal Husain, President of the World Food Prize Foundation, emphasized that TAP recognizes innovators who deliver tangible results across the food system. The program reflects the legacy of Dr. Norman E. Borlaug by supporting science-driven solutions, cross-sector collaboration, and community impact. Since its launch in 2024, TAP has grown into a global network of trailblazers addressing challenges in agriculture, nutrition, sustainability, and technology.
The 2025 cohort included 39 individuals from 27 countries, ranging in age from 20 to 79, showcasing a diverse spectrum of experience and expertise. TAP recipients demonstrate how locally grounded innovation can have global significance. For example, Phindi Cebukhulu Mosomi, 2025 Top Agri-food Pioneer and Group CEO of Hazile Group, advances scalable, locally led solutions with relevance beyond their immediate communities, illustrating the program’s impact.
Submissions for the 2026 TAP cohort are open to any individual or institution. Eligibility criteria, the selection process, and promotional resources are available on the World Food Prize Foundation website.
