The American Farm Bureau, in partnership with Farm Credit, is accepting applications through July 31 for the 2021 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies addressing the challenges faced by farmers, ranchers, and the rural communities they live in. The Farm Bureau Entrepreneur of the Year Award increased to $50,000 for 2021’s contest. Farm Bureau will award a total of $145,000 in startup funds provided by contest sponsors. Farm Bureau is looking for entrepreneurs who address both the traditional challenges farmers and rural communities face, as well as business owners tackling new challenges due to COVID-19. “As Farm Bureau members continue to grapple with the impacts of COVID-19, solutions from entrepreneurs are more vital than ever,” says AFBF Vice President Scott VanderWal. Ten startup companies will compete at the AFBF Convention in January of 2021 as semi-finalists. Those teams will be announced on October 5th. Those ten teams then compete to advance to the final round where four teams win an additional $7,500 and compete in front of Farm Bureau members, investors, and industry representatives. Entrepreneurs must be Farm Bureau members to compete. For more information, go to
