The American Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with Farm Credit, is seeking entrepreneurs to apply online by June 9 for the 2026 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. Now in its 12th year, 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 of the competition will receive $100,000 in funding, the runner-up will be awarded $25,000, and two additional business owners who advance to the final four round will receive $10,000. After the application period closes, 10 semifinalist teams will be selected and announced on Aug. 4. Next, the 10 semifinalist teams will pitch virtually to compete for a spot in the final four round of the contest. The final four teams will be awarded $10,000 each and participate in a live pitch competition in front of Farm Bureau members, investors and industry representatives at the AFBF Convention in January 2026 in Anaheim, Calif. To learn more about the competition or apply, visit fb.org/challenge.
