1. What is the Food Systems Impact Change Maker Award?

The Food Systems Impact Change Maker Award is a prestigious recognition presented by Impact Circle to honor individuals and organizations pioneering transformative change in food systems. It celebrates leadership in innovation, sustainability, and social impact across agriculture, technology, community development, and education.

 

2. Who is eligible to apply or be nominated?

Eligible nominees include individuals, teams, startups, non-profits, academic institutions, cooperatives, or established companies working within the food systems value chain. This includes—but is not limited to—farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, educators, community organizers, and supply chain innovators.

 

3. Can I nominate myself or my organization?

Yes. Self-nominations are welcome and encouraged. You may also nominate others whose work you admire or whose impact deserves wider recognition.

 

4. Are there specific focus areas or themes?

Yes. The award focuses on five thematic categories:

 

• Sustainable Agriculture Innovator

• Food Technology Pioneer

• Food Supply Chain Enabler

• Community Food Champion

• Food Education Advocate

 

Each category reflects a key lever of change in the food system.

 

5. What are the evaluation criteria?

Nominees are evaluated based on:

 

• Impact: Demonstrated positive outcomes or systemic change.

• Innovation: Uniqueness, creativity, or breakthrough approach.

• Scalability: Potential for growth, replication, or broader adoption.

• Equity & Inclusion: Commitment to addressing inequality and promoting access.

• Sustainability: Environmental stewardship and long-term viability.

 

6. What do awardees receive?

Awardees receive:

 

• Official recognition and media exposure through Impact Circle’s platforms.

• Access to the Impact Circle Network of funders, thought leaders, and collaborators.

• Invitation to present at the Food Systems Impact Forum.

• Post-award engagement opportunities, including partnerships, mentorship, and funding pathways.

 

7. Is there a cost to apply or nominate?

No. There is no fee to apply or nominate for the award.

 

8. How are finalists and winners selected?

Applications and nominations are reviewed by a panel of independent experts and leaders in agriculture, technology, sustainability, policy, and social impact. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or to provide additional documentation.

 

9. When will winners be announced?

Winners are typically announced during the annual Impact Circle Summit or aligned with a major food systems or sustainability event. Exact dates will be published on the official website.

 

10. Can nominees come from any country?

Yes. The award is global. We welcome nominations from all countries and regions, especially from those working in emerging markets or underrepresented communities.

 

11. Do I need to submit materials in English?

Yes. For fairness and consistency in the judging process, all application materials must be submitted in English.

 

12. Can previous nominees or finalists apply again?

Yes. Previous nominees and finalists are encouraged to apply again, especially if their impact has grown or evolved since the last submission.