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Farmers have long been pioneers of innovation, constantly adapting to new challenges and finding ways to strengthen their businesses. Today’s farmers are leveraging tools and technology that would have seemed unimaginable just a generation ago. 

Innovation in agriculture is just as diverse as the industry it supports, but one thing rings true across every sector – it’s moving at a rapid pace and helping farmers do more with less. 

The spirit of innovation has also long been a priority for Farm Bureau at the local, state and national level. As agriculture continues to face economic pressure, labor shortages, changing consumer expectations and environmental changes, creating opportunities for new ideas and emerging leaders in innovation has never been more important.

Growing Tomorrow Grant

Now in its third year, Ohio Farm Bureau has opened applications for the Growing Tomorrow Grant, a program offering up to $100,000 to support innovative agricultural business ideas and projects led by Ohio’s next generation of farmers and entrepreneurs. Created through the vision of Mike and Patti Boyert, the program is open to any Ohio Farm Bureau young farmer or entrepreneur member with a focus on agricultural education, environmental stewardship, rural economic opportunities and solutions that strengthen local communities. 

Applications are open through July 31, and information can be found at this Growing Tomorrow Grant webpage. The 2025 recipients, Nathan and Jill Parriman of Clover Valley Farm are using the grant toward long-term diversification efforts on their farm and strengthening their local community. 

“Ohio Farm Bureau and our foundation have long been focused on creating opportunities for our young agricultural professionals and entrepreneurs, and as agriculture faces a long list of challenges, the grant helps these young leaders use their skills to address these challenges and generate a deeper understanding of farming to our consumers and communities,” said Kelly Burns, Ohio Farm Bureau Foundation executive director.

Ag Innovation Challenge

On the national level, American Farm Bureau continues to showcase forward-thinking entrepreneurs through the Ag Innovation Challenge, a business competition focused on solutions that address challenges facing America’s farmers and rural communities. In partnership with Farm Credit, the competition provides a total of $145,000 in startup funds and helps elevate new business to the farm families they are designed to serve. 

Applications for the 2027 Ag Innovation Challenge are open until June 5, and more information on the competition and past winners can be found through the Ag Innovation Challenge webpage. 

“America’s farmers and ranchers have long relied on innovation to help navigate the challenges facing agriculture. Farm Bureau understands this important role new ideas and technology plays in strengthening our supply chain, and the Ag Innovation Challenge serves as American Farm Bureau’s flagship program supporting entrepreneurs developing solutions for agriculture’s greatest challenges,” said Chase Hieneman, managing director of industry relations at American Farm Bureau. “Each year, the challenge provides nearly $150,000 in prize funding to emerging startups, further demonstrating Farm Bureau’s commitment to supporting innovation and the future of agriculture.”

Photo caption: Colin Raby, a Louisiana Farm Bureau member is team lead for FarmMind , the winner of the 2026 Ag Innovation Challenge competition. Photo by American Farm Bureau