On Jun. 19, 2013, Dr. Marc Van Montagu, Dr. Mary Dell Chilton, and Dr. Robert Fraley shared the 2013 World Food Prize for their individual breakthrough achievements in founding, developing, and applying modern agricultural biotechnology. Their research has made it possible for farmers to grow crops with: improved yields; resistance to insects and disease; and the ability to tolerate extreme variations in climate.

The World Food Prize Foundation was initially sponsored and formed by businessman and philanthropist John Ruan, Sr. with support from the Governor and State Legislature of Iowa. Mr. Ruan endowed the Prize and relocated it to Des Moines in 1990 when its first sponsor withdrew. Without Mr. Ruan’s generosity, the Prize and Dr. Borlaug’s vision could not have continued.

Today, more than 80 companies, foundations and individuals support the Foundation. In 2001, John Ruan’s son, John Ruan III, succeeded his father as chairman of the Board of the Foundation. A distinguished international Council of Advisors provides guidance and support to the Foundation.