International Rice Research Institute

Hello! We are the International Rice Research Institute. That is a long name, so you can call us by our shorter name, IRRI. Our job is to help farmers all around the world grow a very important food: rice. Rice is a small grain that many people eat every day. It helps them have the energy to learn and play. We want to make sure there is always enough yummy rice for everyone who needs it.

A long time ago, two groups called the Ford Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation helped us get started. Because they helped, we can do our important work. We study rice plants to learn how to make them grow better. We are like plant scientists. We watch to see what helps the rice grow tall and healthy. This helps us find the best kinds of rice for farmers to plant.

We also have a very special place called a seed bank. It is cool and safe inside, like a library for seeds. We keep thousands of different kinds of rice seeds there. There are so many types! Some are long, and some are round. By keeping them safe, we protect all the different kinds of rice for the future. This way, farmers will always have the seeds they need to grow food for their families.

Today, we are still working hard to help farmers and families. We share what we learn about growing healthy rice. Our work helps make sure there is plenty of good food for people to eat all over the world.