The search is on for our next
Champion
Does your student love to cook or enjoy getting creative in the kitchen? This is their moment!
Florida Future Chef is a statewide culinary competition that invites Florida students to showcase their creativity using nutritious ingredients grown right here in Florida, for a chance to compete at a live finale event and win up to $5,000 in a Florida Prepaid Savings Plan.
Students are challenged to design a school meal that brings together at least three of the five key components: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy or dairy alternatives. Along the way, they’ll build confidence, practice real-world skills, and explore how food connects to fuel for your body, agriculture, and creativity.
Entries for Florida Future Chef 2026 have closed. We look forward to reviewing your student’s entry and will notify finalists of their selection by email before or on July 24, 2026! For more information regarding Florida Future Chef, please sign up for more information below.
PRIZES
Sponsored by Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation
Finalists earn more than recognition. They unlock an experience designed to celebrate their hard work, creativity, and passion for nutritious cooking. After entries are reviewed and top students are selected, three finalists advance to the live cook‑off finale in Tampa, where they prepare their dishes in front of judges, supporters, and fellow young chefs.
The competition also awards meaningful prizes that help students invest in their education and future goals:
2nd Prize
- Florida 529 Savings Plan
1st Prize
- Florida 529 Savings Plan
3rd Prize
- Florida 529 Savings Plan
1st Prize
- Florida 529 Savings Plan
2nd Prize
- Florida 529 Savings Plan
3rd Prize
- Florida 529 Savings Plan
Stay Updated
Families can sign up for updates, reminders, and important dates leading up to the entry deadline.
Need more information?
Sign up for updates and reminders to stay in the loop.
Meet Our PRESENTING Sponsor
Other Programs
Summer BreakSpot
Summer BreakSpot provides nutritious meals at no cost to Florida children 18 and under while school is out for the summer.
National School Lunch Program
The National School Lunch Program provides students with nutritionally balanced school meals, giving them the energy and focus they need to succeed in the classroom – and beyond.
Farm to School
