Ag Innovation Challenge Opens: $100K for Top Entrepreneur

Farm Bureau and Farm Credit launch 13th annual competition for startups solving agriculture challenges

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:24pm

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The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is accepting online applications from entrepreneurs for the 2027 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge through June 5. This national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to challenges faced by America's farmers, ranchers and rural communities. The overall winner will receive $100,000 in startup funds, the runner-up $25,000, and two additional finalists $10,000 each.

Why it matters

Encouraging agricultural innovation is essential to keeping American farming and rural communities strong. The Ag Innovation Challenge provides critical startup funding and exposure for entrepreneurs building solutions to support farmers, ranchers and rural areas.

The details

The 10 semi-finalist teams will be selected and announced on Sept. 2, then pitch virtually to compete for a spot in the final four round. The four finalists will each receive $10,000 and participate in a live pitch competition at the AFBF Convention in January 2027 in Charlotte, North Carolina to determine the $90,000 grand prize winner and $15,000 runner-up.

  • The application period is open through June 5, 2026.
  • The 10 semi-finalist teams will be announced on September 2, 2026.
  • The final four teams will pitch live at the AFBF Convention in January 2027.

The players

American Farm Bureau Federation

A national organization representing farm and ranch families in the United States.

Farm Credit

A nationwide network of borrower-owned lending institutions that provide credit and related services to farmers, ranchers, and other eligible borrowers.

Zippy Duvall

President of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

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What they’re saying

“Encouraging innovation is essential to keeping American agriculture strong. If you're building a business that can help farmers and rural communities thrive, don't wait, apply today.”

— Zippy Duvall, President, American Farm Bureau Federation

What’s next

The 10 semi-finalist teams will be selected and announced on September 2, 2026. The four finalists will then pitch live at the AFBF Convention in January 2027 in Charlotte, North Carolina to determine the $90,000 grand prize winner and $15,000 runner-up.

The takeaway

The Ag Innovation Challenge provides critical startup funding and exposure for entrepreneurs developing solutions to support America's farmers, ranchers and rural communities. This competition demonstrates the Farm Bureau's commitment to fostering agricultural innovation that can strengthen the industry and rural economies.