The FARM Foundation Prize
The FARM Foundation Prize was launched in 2024 as an annual award for action research in the field of agricultural development and food security in developing countries. Presented at FARM’s annual international conference, the prize recognizes researchers who, through their scientific and social commitment, make a tangible contribution to improving the living conditions of rural populations and developing sustainable food systems. The annual prize is €5,000.
Meeting the challenge of transforming agriculture
In developing countries, agricultural development and food security are crucial issues that shape the lives of millions of people, from producers to consumers. In the face of demographic, economic, climatic and geopolitical challenges, a paradigm shift towards sustainable and productive agricultural models is essential. These models must accelerate agro-ecological transformation, protect biodiversity and soils, while strengthening social equity, fair remuneration for producers and food sovereignty.
Building bridges between research and action
Although solutions are available and being tested around the world to sustainably increase productivity and living conditions for farmers, scaling them up remains a major challenge. Investment in research, entrepreneurship and public action remains insufficient. This is why the FARM Foundation, positioned at the crossroads between research, corporate strategy, and public policy, has created this Prize to promote synergies between the various players in the agricultural and food systems.
Priority action themes
Co-constructed by the members of FARM’s Scientific Council and management, with the support of its Board, the Prize rewards researchers working on four priority themes:
- Promoting the resilience of agriculture to climate change and the sustainable management of natural resources
- Improving South/North supply conditions and consumption patterns by promoting fair market conditions for producers, consumer health and the rational management of inputs
- Taking action to mobilize public and private funding to transform agricultural and food systems
- Developing public policies that guarantee food security and sovereignty
Winner 2025: a researcher working with women farmers in Burkina Faso
The first edition of the FARM Prize was announced at the Foundation’s International Conference on 28 January 2025. Koulibi Fidèle Zongo was chosen as the winner from among 31 candidates. The jury praised his commitment to action with key stakeholders and the quality of his work on soil fertility management in the context of climate change in Burkina Faso (see the news).
Koulibi Fidèle Zongo holds a PhD in agro-pedology and agronomy, he teaches and is a researcher at the Tenkodogo University Centre of the Thomas Sankara University.
His scientific approach is based on participatory research and development, as illustrated by his work with 42 women producing compost in northern Burkina Faso. As he explains, ‘I chose this topic to work towards a sustainable food system for rural populations’.
The 2025 jury, chaired by Pierre Jacquet, economist and Chairman of the Scientific Council of the FARM Foundation, was particularly inspired by his career path.
The other five 2025 finalists
2026 edition: applications now open!
Following the success of the 2025 edition, the Foundation is inviting researchers from developing countries to apply for the new 2026 edition, which will highlight other inspiring careers.
Applications have been open since 7 April 2025 and will be accepted until 15 June 2025 at 23:59 (Paris time). Don’t miss this opportunity to join a community committed to the positive transformation of food and farming systems in developing countries!
