As the year draws to a close, one trend stands out for its profound implications for global food security: the sharp contraction in foreign aid. 

In 2025, major donor countries–including the U.S., Germany, and the U.K.–significantly reduced their humanitarian and development contributions. Funding for humanitarian assistance fell from $37 billion in 2024 to $22.4 billion this year–the lowest level in nearly a decade–and development assistance is projected to decline by as much as 17 percent.

This pullback comes despite unrelenting need: acute food insecurity continues to affect more than 300 million people worldwide. And as budgets tighten, remaining resources will likely understandably focus on the 87 million people experiencing the most life-threatening conditions. 

But it takes more than food relief to end hunger. Resilient food systems ensure communities have sufficient, affordable, healthy food—even in the face of crisis. Evidence shows that building these systems is more effective—and ultimately less costly—than repeatedly responding with emergency aid.

That’s why, as we look ahead, GFI is sharpening our focus on strengthening food system resilience through evidence, partnerships, and policy solutions that tackle the root causes of hunger. In a moment of shrinking resources and rising need, we remain committed to elevating solutions that help communities move from crisis toward stability.

Stacy Dean
Carbonell Family Executive Director
Global Food Institute

In partnership with GW’s Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (OIE), GFI will be offering a new Food Innovation track as part of the university’s 2026 New Venture Competition–a student competition where participants develop, test, and launch their own start-ups.

We’re seeking judges with experience in entrepreneurship, industry, or innovation to provide thoughtful, constructive feedback to start-up teams. Judges play a key role in supporting emerging ventures and shaping the next generation of food innovators. The total time commitment is 3–7 hours between February and April. 

Learn more about the process and apply to be a judge here.

Over the past year, GFI’s Growing Forward thought leadership series with Food Tank has featured conversations that resonated strongly with our community. From health equity to culinary innovation, these essays and Q&As sparked meaningful dialogue and demonstrated the appetite for innovative solutions to today’s most pressing food challenges.

GFI’s audience favorites include:

SEEDS & CULTURE: Rural and Urban Agriculture United Conference. The Ujamaa Cooperative Farming Alliance, in partnership with 2020 Farmers Co-op, will host this conference at the University of the District of Columbia from March 6-7. Connect with urban and rural growers and join BIPOC growers celebrating culturally meaningful heirloom seeds. 

South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference Food Track. From March 8–10 in Austin, TX, attend sessions in SXSW’s Food Track. Chefs, entrepreneurs, activists, farmers, scientists, and enthusiasts will come together to explore how technology and innovation can transform the way we grow, cook, and consume food—building a more sustainable and healthier world.

School Nutrition Association's Legislative Action Conference. Also from March 8-10, this conference in Washington, DC, offers an inside look at the democratic process, legislative and regulatory challenges facing school nutrition, and opportunities to advocate directly with policymakers. School nutrition professionals can enter the #LAC26 Sweepstakes by January 18 for a chance to win a free trip to the conference. 

Seasonal Reads. Looking for cookbooks that explore the history, culture, and flavors of diverse communities? This curated holiday guide features titles from culinary historians in the American South and Indigenous communities, offering stories, recipes, and perspectives that celebrate food’s rich cultural roots. Civil Eats

Global Hunger on the Rise. The World Food Programme’s 2026 Global Outlook warns that humanitarian funding shortfalls, conflict, extreme weather, and economic instability are intensifying food insecurity worldwide. Without urgent action, millions more could face severe hunger and malnutrition. Reuters

Hidden Chemicals in Our Food. A new report highlights the widespread presence of synthetic chemicals, including PFAS, in the environment and their entry into the food supply. Exposure is linked to negative health outcomes–including obesity, cancer, and infertility–raising concerns about long-term impacts on public health. The Guardian

Future Food Leaders Wanted. The Bill Emerson National Hunger Fellowship trains and inspires the next generation of leaders working to end hunger and poverty in the U.S. Fellows gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities to shape policy and programs. Applications are open through January 30, 2026. Congressional Hunger Center

How Healthy Is Your Grocery Cart? A new report from FoodHealth Co. and NielsenIQ finds that the average American grocery cart scores well below the threshold for long-term health. Scores are low across income levels, revealing how poor diet quality is widespread. And when adjusted for income, SNAP and non-SNAP households also show similar purchasing patterns. Mass Market Retailers

 

For Rami Al Ghazzi and his wife Shaza Sakbani, cooking is both a livelihood and a way to preserve the Syrian culture they were forced to leave behind. Since arriving in the U.S. in 2013, they’ve built their catering business, Damascinos, while navigating years of legal uncertainty. 

Through hands-on cooking and mentorship for other refugees, they share stories of resilience, hope, and the power of food to connect communities. Recently, they brought these skills and stories to GW's campus, leading an interactive demonstration for students.

 

We want to lift up your work and share information about events, opportunities to collaborate or whatever you think is important to share. Email us at globalfoodinstitute@gwu.edu. 

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