Three awards will support ideas that benefit agriculture and rural communities.
Farm Credit Mid-America has launched a new program designed to help young people turn agricultural ideas into real-world projects by providing funding and support for youth-led innovation initiatives.
The new Youth in Ag Innovation Program is accepting applications through December 1, 2026, and will award a total of $17,500 to three organizations whose projects demonstrate creativity, leadership and measurable benefits for agriculture or rural communities.
According to the organization, the program aims to encourage young leaders to identify challenges and opportunities in agriculture and develop practical solutions related to farming practices, food production and access, sustainability, conservation, and agricultural technology.
“Some of the best ideas for the future of agriculture may come from the young people who will help lead it,” explained Hannah Walker, Community Investment Manager at Farm Credit Mid-America. “Through the Youth in Ag Innovation Program, we want to give young people the opportunity and resources to take an idea, put it into action and make a difference in agriculture and their communities.”
The program will recognize three projects with varying levels of financial support. The top project will receive $10,000, while two additional winners will receive awards of $5,000 and $2,500. Award funds must be used to implement the proposed projects.
Eligible applicants include youth-led groups affiliated with established organizations such as FFA (Future Farmers of America) chapters, 4-H clubs, school-based agriculture or science programs, and other recognized youth-serving organizations. Participants are recommended to be between the ages of 12 and 18 and must work with an adult advisor or sponsor.
Applicants are expected to take an active role in developing, planning, implementing and evaluating their projects. Submissions should outline project goals, expected outcomes and timelines, while demonstrating potential benefits to agriculture, youth development or the broader community.
Program organizers said projects that show strong community partnerships and opportunities for rural leadership development will be viewed favorably during the evaluation process. Applications will be judged on originality, feasibility, youth involvement and overall project quality.
Three finalists will be invited to present their ideas at Farm Credit Mid-America's February 2027 Advocate Council Meeting, where customers will vote to determine the final award placements. The top award recipient will also be invited to return the following year to share the results of their completed project.
Applications for the program are due by December 1, 2026. Additional details and application information are available through the Youth in Ag Innovation Program at www.fcma.com.