The Farm491 Challenge Prize, run by the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) with support from the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, is returning for its third year. It offers a chance to win £40,000 for the most promising business in mixed land use, with the runner-up receiving £20,000. Both the winner and runner up will also receive 12 months of mentoring and business support from Farm491, the RAU’s innovation hub focused on the future of farming and food systems. A judging and awards event will take place at the Farm491 headquarters on Friday, November 27, 2026. Entries are open now and will close on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.