[10] A number of associated events and honors include the World Food Prize Symposium or the Borlaug Dialogue, the Iowa Hunger Summit and youth programs such as the Borlaug-Ruan International Internships.

[11][12] Norman Borlaug (1914–2009) was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1970 for contributions that resulted in the extensive increase in global food production.

[13] Further, the increase in food production has given policy planners across the world more years in figuring out how to feed the growing population.

[10] In 1986, General Foods Corporation, under Vice President A. S. Clausi's leadership, agreed to establish the prize and be the founding sponsor.

[18][19] The former Des Moines Library was acquired and the Ruan family gave $ 5 million to renovate the building into the headquarters for the World Food Prize Foundation.

[6][21] The Founder's Boardroom in the Hall of Laureates commemorates 27 individuals who played an important part in the foundation of the prize.

[107] The Borlaug-Ruan International Internship provides high school students an eight-week opportunity for a hands-on experience, working with scientists and policymakers in hunger and nutrition at research centres around the world.

The event is open to the public and celebrates the role Iowans play in fighting hunger and advancing food security each year.