Win $100K in Farm Bureau Startup Competition
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), in collaboration with Farm Credit, is inviting entrepreneurs to apply for the 2026 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge by June 9.
Now in its 12th year, this national competition highlights U.S. startups that are developing forward-thinking solutions to the challenges faced by farmers, ranchers, and rural communities.
The competition offers a total of $145,000 in startup funding. The grand prize winner will receive $100,000, while the runner-up will be awarded $25,000. Two additional finalists will each receive $10,000.
“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.”
After the application deadline, 10 semi-finalist teams will be announced on August 4. These teams will participate in a virtual pitch round to compete for a place in the final four. Each of the four finalists will receive $10,000 and move on to present their business ideas live at the AFBF Convention in January 2026, held in Anaheim, California.
At the convention, the finalists will compete for the top honors:
- Challenge Winner: Additional $90,000 (totaling $100,000)
- Runner-up: Additional $15,000 (totaling $25,000)
The competition is supported by sponsors including Farm Credit, Bayer Crop Science, John Deere, Farm Bureau Bank, Farm Bureau Financial Services, and T-Mobile.
Past winners include Gripp, which provides farmers with tools to manage assets and communication, and Barn Owl Precision Agriculture, known for its autonomous robot that assists with planting, weed control, and soil sampling.
To qualify as a semi-finalist, applicants must be members of a county or parish Farm Bureau in their state. Non-members can learn how to join at fb.org/about/get-involved.
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. EDT on June 9. More details, including eligibility and past winners, are available at fb.org/challenge.