Up to £40,000 for Nature-Friendly Land Innovation – Farm491 Challenge

The Farm491 Challenge Prize 2026 supports UK companies developing innovative tools, technologies and approaches for nature-friendly, multifunctional land use, particularly solutions that balance food production, renewable energy and biodiversity.

Here’s what you can expect:

• £40,000 cash prize for the winner

• £20,000 cash prize for the runner-up

• 12 months of mentoring and business support

• Access to Farm491's network and events

• Strategic support to help scale the winning innovations

• Funding can be used to advance the business and develop its product or service

• Winners retain their intellectual property

• Funding cannot be used for salaries, living costs or servicing debt.

Who can apply?

• UK-registered companies

• Companies up to 7 years old

• Businesses operating or intending to operate in the land-based sector

• Applicants with a working prototype or fully developed product/service model

• Businesses able to demonstrate reasonable market demand

• Innovations focused on or adaptable to multifunctional land use

• Companies from outside the traditional land sector can apply if their technology has a relevant alternative application

• Applicants must explain how the prize money would help them reach their next stage.

Deadline: 30 September 2026.