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 - this year is the 12th edition - 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 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.

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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."