Are you developing tools, technologies, or approaches that promote nature-friendly, multi-functional land use?
The future of land management requires a highly integrated approach that balances food production, renewable energy and biodiversity.
Endorsed by the UK Government’s newly launched National Framework for Land Use in England, our Challenge seeks to build a more resilient future for our landscapes.
Generously supported by Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and powered by Farm491 at the Royal Agricultural University, 2026 marks the third year of the Farm491 Challenge Prize. Having already awarded £135,000 to pioneering companies, we are once again looking for innovative solutions to create systematic change to our land whilst mitigating competing pressures.
The 2026 Challenge will award a £40,000 cash prize to the winning entry and £20,000 for the runner up. Both the winner and runner up will also gain exclusive access to Farm491’s extensive network, events and strategic business support.
This year we specifically seek high-growth innovators that can leverage this support to take their solution to landscape scale.
Applications have now closed for this year’s Challenge. To register interest in future Challenge events, please email farm491@rau.ac.uk.
Scroll down to discover how we will decide this year’s winner and runner up.
The Challenge journey
Phase 1
Call for applications
Applicants were invited to submit an entry no later than 30 September 2026.
Phase 2
Shortlisting
After consideration by a preliminary judging panel, a shortlist of six companies were chosen.
Entrants were informed as to whether they have been successful in the shortlisting process no later than 9 October 2026.
Phase 3
Pitching practice
Finalists will be invited to attend an online workshop in 28 October 2026 led by expert business advisors which will focus on how to develop a strong pitch, specifically focusing on the company’s vision and why their solution is unique. The workshop will also explore key pitch metrics, such as market size and opportunities to scale.
Phase 4
Final judging and awards
On 27 November 2026 finalists will pitch their company or idea to a panel of judges at the Alliston Centre on the Royal Agricultural University campus.
An overall winner will be selected and awarded a £40,000 cash prize, plus 12 months mentoring and business support from Farm491. The runner up will receive £20,000, plus 12 months mentoring and support from Farm491.