The 2026 World Food Forum Theme
Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow.
Young people are key drivers of agrifood systems transformation. Across the world, they are leading change in their communities, advancing innovation and developing solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing food and agriculture.
The 2026 theme, "Innovate Today. Nourish Tomorrow." highlights the critical role of science, technology, innovation and traditional knowledge in transforming agrifood systems. It emphasizes the need to accelerate solutions that make agrifood systems more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable, while ensuring access to sufficient, diverse, safe and nutritious food for all. The theme also recognizes the importance of empowering young people to contribute as innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers and leaders in building a more food-secure and sustainable future. At a time when generational renewal has become a strategic priority for agrifood systems worldwide, we must ensure that young people, especially young women, have the opportunities, skills and support to enter the sector, succeed within it and shape its future.
Innovation goes beyond technology
Innovation is often associated with new technologies, but it can take many forms. It includes scientific discoveries and digital tools, as well as new ways of learning, collaborating, producing and sharing knowledge. It can be found in traditional agricultural practices, community-led initiatives, innovative business models and policies that expand opportunities for those who need them most.
For young people, innovation is about finding practical solutions to real-world challenges. It is about turning ideas into action and ensuring that progress benefits people, communities and the planet.
From ideas to impact
Innovation only creates change when it reaches people and communities at scale. Transforming agrifood systems requires collaboration across sectors and generations, bringing together youth, farmers, researchers, policymakers, investors and development partners to move solutions from ideas to implementation.
Through the WFF Youth Initiative, young people are engaging in policy processes, developing innovative solutions, building partnerships and contributing to action at local, national and global levels. Together, they are helping shape agrifood systems that are more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.
What does “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.” mean for youth?
It means creating opportunities for young people to lead and participate in agrifood systems transformation.
It means investing in ideas and solutions that improve food security, nutrition and livelihoods.
It means combining innovation with local knowledge, culture and experience.
It means ensuring that no young person is left behind in the transition to more sustainable agrifood systems.
Above all, it means recognizing that the future of food depends on the actions we take today.
Join the movement
Whether you are developing an innovative solution, conducting research, launching an enterprise, strengthening your community or advocating for meaningful youth engagement, there is a place for you in the World Food Forum.
Together, we can innovate today to nourish tomorrow.
Global Youth Action Initiative
The Global Youth Action Initiative equips emerging leaders with the tools, knowledge, and networks to influence agrifood systems. Through regional consultations, bootcamps, innovation labs, and the culminating Global Youth Forum in October, young people from around the world shape policies, pitch solutions, and connect with policymakers. Their voices continue to influence both FAO’s internal frameworks and national-level action, particularly in advancing Better Nutrition and a Better Life.
Science and Innovation Forum
The Science and Innovation Forum serves as a compass for agrifood transformation. Each year, it explores how frontier knowledge, traditional wisdom, and bold partnerships can forge new pathways. In 2025, the Forum will emphasize the critical role of science, innovation, and partnerships in shaping a more resilient and equitable food future. Through high-level plenary discussions, immersive experiences, interactive pitch events, and hands-on hackathons, the Forum will create synergies across disciplines and initiatives, connecting science, innovation, and partners across sectors and regions to accelerate agrifood systems transformation.
Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum
The Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum provides a stage for countries to showcase investment opportunities developed through FAO’s tools, data, and inclusive consultation. Through curated engagement between national authorities and international investors, and private sector, the Forum fosters new relationships that bring financing, visibility, and support to agrifood system priorities. These efforts reflect the need for strategic alignment in advancing Better Production, Better Nutrition, Better Environment and Better Life, and underscore the value of finance that responds to national ownership and community needs.
Rome Water Dialogue
Held during World Food Week, the Rome Water Dialogue offers a high-level platform to promote integrated solutions in water and agriculture. The 2025 edition will feature a session on “Impactful Water Solutions,” where Members will present forward-thinking projects and practices. These exchanges create a space where good ideas are not only heard but scaled—illustrating how water management can help safeguard agrifood systems and support multiple development goals at once.
South-South and Triangular Cooperation
SSTC is a defining element of FAO’s approach to global partnership. The 2025 high-level event, “South-South and Triangular Cooperation: A Catalyst for Agrifood System Transformation,” will feature success stories from across regions, highlight innovations supported through SSTC, and recognize exceptional contributions. An interactive exhibition and the launch of the SSTC Gateway platform will enhance access to tools, resources, and peer exchanges. These efforts reflect FAO’s belief in cooperation that is practical, equitable, and rooted in shared experience.
Global Exhibition: From Seeds to Foods
Taking place 10–13 October, this flagship exhibition is both celebration and statement. Hosted at the Park of Porta Capena, it will present the full agrifood value chain—from seed systems to culinary culture. The exhibition includes four key sections: Agricultural Products, Agricultural Technologies, Agricultural Foods, and Promotional Activities. Visitors will discover how diverse traditions, innovations, and values come together to shape the future of food.
Indigenous Peoples' Territory
Indigenous Peoples are vital partners in food systems transformation. During World Food Week, the Sami Nomadic Tents will host cultural events, expert dialogues, and technical discussions led by Indigenous elders, youth, and scientists. The third annual in-person meeting of the nomadic Indigenous Peoples' territory at FAO's 80 anniversary will take place within this dedicated space, with participants from over 37 organizations. Topics will include knowledge co-creation, investment, and local governance, in coordination with the Hand-in-Hand Investment Forum, the Rome Water Dialogue, and the Science and Innovation Forum. The presence of Indigenous Chefs and artists will create a rich atmosphere of learning and exchange - deepening the impact of World Food Week and affirming that food is both heritage and horizon.