WASHINGTON—Agricultural entrepreneurs nationwide have the opportunity to win significant funding through a business competition designed specifically for rural innovators addressing farming challenges.
The American Farm Bureau Federation has partnered with Farm Credit to distribute $145,000 in startup funding through their annual Ag Innovation Challenge. This program supports entrepreneurs developing solutions for both longstanding agricultural problems and emerging issues affecting farming communities and rural areas.
Previous competition winners have included cutting-edge livestock protection technology, automated robots designed to keep farmers safely out of grain storage facilities, and hydroelectric systems for crop irrigation—demonstrating the diverse range of innovative solutions the program supports.
This marks the 13th consecutive year for the competition, which was pioneering as the nation’s first business contest dedicated entirely to rural entrepreneurship.
Prize distribution includes $100,000 for the top winner, $25,000 for second place, and $10,000 each for the remaining two finalists who reach the final round.
The application deadline is set for June 5, with ten semifinalists to be announced September 2. These selected teams will present virtual pitches competing for advancement to the final four round.
For media inquiries, contact Mike Tomko, AFBF communications director, at 202-406-3642 or [email protected], or Bailey Corwine, AFBF communications manager, at 202-406-3643 or [email protected].
