Young people across the UK are being invited to apply for the 2026 AgriScot Business Skills Award, with a £1000 top prize on offer.
Now in its 16th year and sponsored by Virgin Money, the competition is open to aspiring agricultural professionals aged 18 to 25.
This year's challenge asks entrants: What should be the top priority for Scottish agriculture over the next 25 years, and how can the industry achieve it?
Run in partnership with SRUC, the award aims to develop the next generation of agricultural business leaders through written submissions and on-farm challenges.
Heather Kerr of SRUC, who facilitates the competition, said the award continues to attract "impressive applications from passionate young people" and provides a chance to develop long-term business thinking and leadership skills.
Applications opened on September 2 and close at 4pm on October 2. Entrants must submit a CV and an entry statement.
Semi-final heats will be held on October 17 at New Deer and October 18 at Carstairs, with six finalists progressing to the AgriScot event on 18 November at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, as the show celebrates its 25th anniversary.
The winner will receive £1000, while two runners-up will each receive £250.
AgriScot chairman Gilmour Lawrie said the award encourages young people to think seriously about the future of Scottish agriculture and develop the business skills the industry will need over the coming decades.
Last year's winner, Rachel Baillie, urged others to enter, describing the competition as an invaluable experience that built her confidence, challenged her thinking and created networking opportunities with people from across the industry.
To find out more about the 2026 Business Skills Award, go to www.agriscot.co.uk/business-skills-award
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