The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC), in partnership with McCain Foods (GB) Ltd, has announced the launch of the "Inspiring Innovators" programme for the 2025 conference.

This new initiative offers a unique platform for trailblazers within the agricultural, food, and rural sectors to showcase their ideas, research, or new technologies to a distinguished audience at one of the UK's most prestigious farming conferences.

Set against the theme “Facing Change, Finding Opportunity,” the 2025 OFC will take place from January 8-10. As part of the programme, up to six selected participants will have the opportunity to present their concepts during the opening session on the afternoon of Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

Jude McCann, and Sheena Horner, both OFC directors, initiated the idea. Sheena said: “The Inspiring Innovators programme provides an exceptional opportunity for ambitious individuals from all backgrounds to share their ideas or concepts with an esteemed Oxford audience, raising awareness and driving interest in their research, start-up, or innovative technology. Participants will also benefit from valuable feedback from industry leaders and experts, offering insights that can further develop their vision.”

Moreover, candidates will be provided with professional presentation and skills training at the McCain Foods facility in Scarborough. This training day, scheduled for 19 November 2024, is designed to ensure that those chosen can deliver their ideas with maximum impact. Additionally, each selected innovator will receive a full conference ticket, including accommodation, allowing them to further network and engage with over 700 delegates during the conference.

The OFC is renowned for gathering the brightest minds and most influential figures in British agriculture, and the Inspiring Innovators programme aligns perfectly with the conference's mission to promote inclusive, diverse, and challenging discussions.

Chairman of OFC 2025, Geoff Sansome, expressed his enthusiasm for the new initiative: "At my first conference, I was inspired to share my own experiences in a session, which was both listened to and valued. The OFC has always been about fostering varied and thought-provoking discussions, and the Inspiring Innovators programme embodies these values by providing a platform for anyone with a transformative idea that can support the sector. We can’t wait to hear from the rising stars of tomorrow and bring their thinking to the forefront.”

McCain’s director of agriculture, James Hopwood said: "At McCain we are delighted to be partnering with OFC on the creation and launch of the exciting new Inspiring Innovators initiative. This is a unique opportunity for individuals from across all backgrounds to have an open platform to showcase their concepts, ideas, thoughts and interests to industry leaders. We look forward to supporting the successful applicants through the coming months and the discussion that follows."

Individuals interested in participating in the Inspiring Innovators programme are invited to apply by submitting a written application of no more than 1,000 words, describing their concept and how it aligns with the 2025 conference theme. Shortlisted candidates will then be asked to submit a one-minute video or attend a brief online interview. Finalists will be notified by the OFC Directors, who will assist with logistical arrangements for presenting at the conference.

The deadline for submissions is 5pm on Monday, September 30, 2024.

For more information and to submit your application, please visit: https://www.ofc.org.uk/inspiring-innovators

The Oxford Farming Conference will take place from January 8 to 10, 2025 and tickets are on sale at www.ofc.org.uk/booking.