Deadline Looms for Startups to Enter Farm Bureau Innovation Challenge

The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), in partnership with Farm Credit Services, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply by June 9 for the 2026 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. 

The national business competition showcases U.S. startups developing solutions to challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. Entrepreneurs must be members of a county or parish Farm Bureau within their state of residence to qualify as top 10 semi-finalists. The application for the challenge — this year is the 12th edition — can be found here.

Applicants who are not Farm Bureau members can learn about becoming a member.

The winner of the competition will receive $100,000 in startup funds; the runner-up will be awarded $25,000; and two additional business owners who advance to the final four will receive $10,000 each.

AFBF is offering $145,000 in funds throughout the course of the competition. After the initial application period closes, 10 semi-finalists will be announced Aug. 4. The semi-finalist teams will pitch virtually to compete for a spot in the final round of the contest.

Finalists will be awarded $10,000 each and participate in a live pitch competition in front of AFBF members, investors, and industry representatives at the AFBF Convention in January 2026 in Anaheim, California, to win these prizes:

• Winner: $90,000 (total of $100,000)
• Runner-up: $15,000 (total of $25,000)

“This competition supports incredible entrepreneurs who are making sure agriculture is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “If you have a vision for how your business can drive agriculture forward, apply today.”