Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is now accepting applications for its annual Grow Your Future Award, giving one young Iowa farmer the chance to win $10,000 to help expand an ag-related business.
The competition is open to Farm Bureau members between the ages of 18 and 35 who are developing innovative, value-added agricultural businesses. Organizers say past participants have launched ventures ranging from direct-to-consumer farm sales and cover crop seed services to agritourism attractions, cut flower operations, and ag-themed Airbnb experiences.
Applications are due September 1st through the Iowa Farm Bureau website. Finalists will be selected by a panel of judges before advancing to a public voting round scheduled for December 7th through the 13th.
The top three finalists will then compete in a live pitch competition during the Iowa Farm Bureau Young Farmer Conference on January 23rd, 2027, where the grand prize winner will be announced.
In addition to the $10,000 top prize, second- and third-place finishers will receive $5,000 and $2,500 respectively.