Entrepreneurs driving forward the next wave of agricultural innovation are being urged to step forward, as the Great Yorkshire Show opens entries for its 2026 Innovation Awards.
The initiative aims to shine a spotlight on pioneering ideas and practical solutions that could reshape the future of farming, from cutting-edge agri-tech to hands-on, farm-ready developments.
Entries are open until May 11, 2026, with finalists earning the opportunity to showcase their innovations in front of thousands of visitors at the show. Winners will be announced on Tuesday, July 14 during the four-day event.
Organised by the Farmer Scientist Network and supported by the Yorkshire Agricultural Society, the awards are designed to highlight how science and technology can deliver real-world solutions for the farming sector.
Dr David George, chair of the Farmer Scientist Network, stressed the importance of embracing innovation:
“Adopting new technology is essential to help farm businesses operate as efficiently, resiliently and productively as possible. Investment in these solutions can underpin all sorts of benefits, from aiding a business to make significant savings in the long run, to helping overcome labour pressures, admin and HR, and supporting first-class animal welfare standards. These Awards celebrate all of this.”
Five categories are open for entry this year:
- Engineering Innovation Award
- Digital Innovation Award
- New Practical Farm Innovation Award
- On-Farm Early Adopter of the Year
- UK Agri-Tech Start Up Award
An overall winner will also be crowned, receiving the prestigious Champion White Rose Innovation Trophy—recognising those pushing the boundaries of what is possible in modern agriculture.
Last year’s top accolade went to DeLaval Plus, an AI-powered system that transforms herd data into clear, actionable insights to support faster and more informed decision-making on farm.
The 167th Great Yorkshire Show runs from July 14–17 at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate. The event remains one of the UK’s flagship agricultural showcases, drawing around 140,000 visitors and featuring more than 8500 animals.
With tickets selling out in advance every year since 2021, organisers are again encouraging early booking, as daily attendance is capped at 35,000.
Free shuttle buses will operate throughout the show, running every 10 minutes between Harrogate Bus Station and the showground.
Further details and entry information can be found via the Great Yorkshire Show website, with applications closing on Monday, May 11.
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