Farm491 Challenge Returns for 2025 with £60,000 Prize Fund for Land Use Innovators

Farm491, the Royal Agricultural University’s innovation hub for land use and agri-tech entrepreneurship, has officially launched the 2025 Farm491 Challenge, marking the second year of the prestigious competition. With a focus on "Mixed Land Use", this year’s challenge seeks to support forward-thinking businesses developing innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing the natural world.

Backed by generous funding from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, the competition offers a total prize fund of £60,000, with £40,000 awarded to the winner and £20,000 to the runner-up. In addition to the cash prizes, both finalists will receive 12 months of tailored mentoring and business support from the Farm491 team.

The initiative is open to startups and entrepreneurs whose ideas contribute meaningfully to land use innovation - whether through technology, sustainable farming practices, regenerative approaches, or integrated land management systems.

Key Dates for the 2025 Farm491 Challenge:

• Applications close: 23 October 2025

• Shortlist announced: 31 October 2025

• Pitching Day (Final): 12 December 2025, held at Farm491 HQ, Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an online pitching workshop in November, helping them prepare for the final pitch in front of a panel of academics and industry experts.

To learn more about eligibility, competition details, and to apply, visit the official Farm491 website. For any additional queries, contact the team directly at farm491@rau.ac.uk.

About Farm491
Farm491 is the Royal Agricultural University’s business development space, supporting the future of farming and food systems. The centre offers a mix of virtual and physical resources for agri-tech entrepreneurs, including mentoring, co-working and office space, networking opportunities, and access to academic expertise. Farm491 is dedicated to empowering innovation in agriculture and land use across the UK and beyond.