Categories

For a family business which operates within the farming sector. It could be a business that has been passed down through the generations or a new husband-wife startup which may well become a business which can be passed down in years to come.

This category is for farmers and farming businesses who are running a mixed range of complimentary enterprises such as beef, arable and sheep or dairy and arable. No single farm sector will be dominant, but there might be two or three that are equally weighted. The judges will be looking for achievements and success in quality, productivity and profitability in each of the farming sectors – and how they work together to create one sustainable farming business.

Honouring a rural business that showcases innovation, sustainability, and economic impact. The winner will demonstrate resilience, growth, and a positive contribution to the rural economy.

Young farmers are the future of our industry so this award recognises those rising stars. It could be an apprentice, a student or someone who is already working full time on a farm that has demonstrated a passion for farming and excelling in what they do. All nominees should be under 35.

The coveted award of Farmer of the Year recognises inspiring individuals who have excelled in their field and are an incredible example for others to follow

This category aims to recognise rural businesses that have identified an opportunity to grow through diversifying from their core business. Whether it is developing the farm to become a tourist attraction, or becoming an accommodation provider through the addition of glamping pods or even leasing land to wind farm developers…whatever the diversification is we want to hear about how it is helping your business

Awarded to a farm or rural business implementing outstanding environmental initiatives. This could include conservation projects, rewilding, renewable energy, or sustainable land management.

An award to recognise an individual's long standing dedication to the farming community. Judges would like to receive nominations for those that can demonstrate decades of service to agriculture either through operations, business or promotion/supporting initiatives for the farming community.

Recognising the finest farm shops in the region, this category celebrates businesses that offers exceptional local produce, outstanding customer service, and a commitment to sustainability. The winner will showcase fresh, high-quality farm-grown or locally sourced products, a strong connection to the region's farming community, and an innovative approach to retail and customer experience. Entry guidelines include:

• Describe your farm shop’s location, size, and range of products.
• Showcase your commitment to local and sustainable produce.
• Highlight customer service, community engagement, and unique offerings.
• Provide evidence of business growth, marketing success, or innovation.
• Include customer testimonials, awards, or sales performance.

Celebrating those who educate the public about farming, sustainability, and rural life, this award honours individuals, farms, or organisations that offer outstanding educational experiences. This could include school outreach programmes, farm open days, conservation projects, or digital resources that increase awareness and appreciation of agriculture. Entry guidelines include:

• Describe your educational programme, event, or outreach work.
• Explain its impact on raising awareness of rural life or agriculture.
• Showcase innovation in engagement, teaching, or communication methods.
• Provide evidence of public reach, feedback, and success stories.
• Highlight collaborations with schools, communities, or industry.

This category recognises a standout event that promotes rural life, farming, or local produce in the region. Judges will look for events that engage communities, support local businesses, and offer an exceptional visitor experience. This could include agricultural shows, food festivals, educational fairs, or farm open days that make a lasting impact. Entry guidelines include:

• Outline the purpose and scale of your event.
• Explain how it supports the farming or rural community.
• Showcase visitor engagement, impact, and unique elements.
• Provide data on attendance, media reach, and feedback.
• Highlight sustainability efforts, local business involvement, or industry recognition.

This award honours a farm stay, B&B, guesthouse, or glamping site that offers an exceptional countryside experience. Judges will consider factors such as unique accommodation, sustainability efforts, visitor engagement, and the promotion of  rural charm and hospitality. Entry guidelines include:

• Describe your accommodation type (farm stay, B&B, glamping, etc.).
• Showcase guest experience, facilities, and unique features.
• Highlight sustainability efforts and connection to the area
• Provide evidence of customer satisfaction, reviews, and awards.
• Explain how your accommodation supports local tourism and businesses.