Nominations Now Open for the FAO Award for Innovation 2026 – Win USD 10,000 for Transformative Agrifood Solutions

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Application Deadline: February15, 2026

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has announced the opening of nominations for the FAO Award for Innovation 2026, a prestigious recognition celebrating transformative ideas and practical solutions that are reshaping global food and agriculture systems.

As the world faces increasing challenges in food security, climate resilience, and sustainable agriculture, innovation remains essential for progress. This award honors individuals and organizations driving inclusive and impactful change across the food value chain — from production and processing to bout the FAO Award for Innovation

The FAO Award for Innovation acknowledges outstanding achievements that advance FAO’s mission to create more efficient, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. It is open to FAO Members and non-state partners, including individuals, organizations, startups, and institutions working toward meaningful transformation in the sector.

The award recognizes innovative solutions spanning technology, policy, institutional mechanisms, business models, and social approaches that strengthen food systems and deliver tangible results for communities worldwide.

What Makes a Strong Nomination

The FAO seeks nominations that showcase originality, measurable impact, and potential for replication. Successful entries typically demonstrate one or more of the following:

  • Significant improvements across multiple stages of the food supply chain.
  • Enhanced transparency, traceability, or sustainability in connecting producers and consumers.
  • Clear environmental, economic, or social benefits that support long-term development.
  • Scalability and cost-effectiveness, ensuring sustainability beyond pilot phases.
  • Active engagement of youth, women, and marginalized communities in innovation and implementation.

Award Benefits

The recipient of the FAO Award for Innovation 2026 will receive:

  • A cash prize of USD 10,000
  • An official FAO Award certificate
  • Global recognition from FAO and its international partners

Beyond financial reward, the award amplifies visibility and credibility for innovators making a real difference in the global food landscape.

Eligibility and Who Can Apply

Nominations are open to a broad spectrum of contributors shaping agricultural innovation, including:

  • Individuals
  • Civil society and non-governmental organizations
  • Academic and research institutions
  • Private sector entities and startups
  • Public institutions
  • International and regional organizations

Entries from all countries are welcome, provided they are submitted through an appropriate FAO Representative. Eligible initiatives must demonstrate notable progress within the two years preceding the current biennium.

Selection and Timeline

The selection process follows a transparent, multi-stage review coordinated by FAO:

  • December 2025: Call for nominations opens
  • February 2026: Nominations close
  • March–April 2026: Screening and review process
  • May 2026: Final selection
  • November–December 2026: Award presentation during the 181st Session of the FAO Council

How to Apply

Nominations should be submitted by national, regional, or global institutions through:

  • FAO Representatives in countries with an accredited FAO office, or
  • FAO Regional or Subregional Representatives in countries without an FAO office.

For detailed submission guidelines and nomination, CLICK HERE

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