AF
American Farm Bureau Federation

Ag Innovation Challenge

Awards US agriculture startups up to $100,000 in a national pitch competition for rural innovation, backed by $145,000 in total prize funds.

ClosedAmerican Farm Bureau FederationUnited States

The Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge is run by the American Farm Bureau Federation with Farm Credit, a nationwide network of customer-owned lenders to farmers, ranchers and rural cooperatives, as its partner. After the application window closes, ten semi-finalist teams are chosen and then pitch virtually for a spot in the final four. The final four pitch live for Farm Bureau leaders, investors …

The Challenge looks for US-based startups building innovative solutions for the problems farmers, ranchers and rural communities face - from traditional issues like labor access, yield optimization and operating costs, to newer challenges facing rural America. It is run by the American Farm Bureau Federation in partnership with Farm Credit, and is now in its 13th year as the first national business competition of its kind for rural entrepreneurs.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Annual
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.-
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.-
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Prize
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.$145K

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