Youth in Ag Innovation Program
The Farm Credit Mid-America Youth in Ag Innovators program awards funding to youth organizations that are leading innovative projects in agriculture, food systems, sustainability, ag technology and rural communities. There are three annual awards, with funding of up to $10,000 available.
Begin Application$10,000Top Project AwardFirst Place
$5,000Excellence AwardSecond Place
$2,500Impact AwardThird Place
Applications Close December 1, 2026
Submit your project proposal for a chance to receive up to $10,000.
What Kind of Projects Are We Looking For?
We’re looking for youth-led projects that introduce creative solutions, improve existing processes or address important needs within agriculture and rural communities.
Agricultural Practices
Projects that improve how crops, livestock or farm operations are managed through new techniques, processes or approaches.
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Food Production or Access
Projects that increase the availability, efficiency, quality or accessibility of food within local communities or food systems.
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Sustainability or Conservation
Projects that promote responsible use of natural resources, protect the environment or improve the long-term sustainability of agriculture.
Ag Technology or Systems
Projects that apply technology, data, equipment or innovative systems to solve agricultural challenges or improve productivity.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a youth-led group affiliated with 4-H, FFA, school clubs or recognized youth organizations
- Include youth participants (recommended ages 12-18) actively leading the project
- Have an identified adult advisor or sponsor
- Propose a project with clear connection to agricultural, food systems or rural innovation
What Makes a Strong Project?
We’re looking for projects that combine innovation, leadership and measurable impact.
Successful applications will:
- Introduce a new idea, creative solution, or improved approach to an agricultural or rural community challenge
- Focus on agricultural practices, food access, sustainability, or ag technology
- Include clear goals, project timeline and measurable outcomes
- Create benefit for agriculture, youth or the community
- Demonstrate strong youth leadership throughout the project
- Define success and the project’s long-term impact
Have a youth-led idea that could improve agriculture in your community?
Farm Credit Mid-America provides awards to help youth organizations turn innovative ideas into real-world projects. Applications close on December 1, 2026.
Up to $10,000 available.
How to Apply
Submit an application that includes:
- Organization and advisor information
- Project description and innovation focus
- Goals, expected outcomes and project timeline
- Budget overview
- Expected impact on agriculture, youth or the community
Selected finalists will also need to submit a one-minute video highlighting their project and its anticipated impact.
How Projects Are Selected
Applications will be reviewed based on five key criteria:
- Innovation: Creativity and originality of the idea
- Feasibility: Likelihood of successful implementation
- Impact: Potential benefits for agriculture or the community
- Youth Leadership: Depth of youth involvement throughout the project
- Clarity: Strength and completeness of the application
Three finalists will be invited to present at the February Advocate Council Meeting (ACM), where final award placements will be determined by a vote of Farm Credit Mid-America customers. The top project winner will be invited to the following year’s ACM meeting to share the impact their project made.
Today’s ideas can shape tomorrow’s future.
If your team has identified a challenge and developed an innovative solution, Farm Credit Mid-America wants to help you bring that vision to life through project funding and recognition. Applications close December 1, 2026.
Awards of up to $10,000 available.
Allowable Uses of Funds
Funds may be used for:
- Project materials and supplies
- Equipment necessary for project implementation
- Educational resources or tools
- Costs associated with testing, prototyping or demonstration
Funds may not be used for:
- General operating expenses unrelated to the project
- Salaries or stipends
- Travel not directly tied to project implementation
- Previously completed work
Expectations for Award Recipients
Award recipients will be asked to:
- Submit a brief report on project outcomes and key learnings
- Share photos, videos or stories from the project
- Participate in Farm Credit Mid-America recognition opportunities
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