AgriFutures is on the hunt for the next generation of agrifood innovators with applications opening for the evokeAG. Groundbreakers program.
The annual leadership mentoring event has rebranded from Future Young Leaders to the 2025 evokeAG. Groundbreakers Program.
It will give five innovators the chance to present their ideas or research to an international audience at evokeAG. in Brisbane in February next year.
The program is open to Australian and New Zealand residents, aged between 18 and 30, who are exploring, researching, or implementing innovative ideas in rural industries or communities.
AgriFutures GM, Global Innovation Network, Harriet Mellish, said the Groundbreakers Program links emerging changemakers with industry experts and peers to help establish the next generation of leaders.
“There are so many inspiring young minds in our food, fibre and fuel production systems,” she said.
“We want to help give them the skills, platform and network to share their ideas, innovations and research so we can continue to build a diverse and sustainable future for Australian agriculture.”
The 2024 winner, Natalie Bell, who founded Hylo Ag – a startup recycling livestock ear tags – said the program was central to her success.
“Participating in the Groundbreakers Program and connecting with incredible mentors has bolstered my confidence in launching Hylo Ag and has helped me overcome the imposter syndrome that often accompanies being a young female founder,” she said.
“The program has refined my elevator pitch, enhanced my project communications, and expanded my vision beyond the domestic market to look at international opportunities.”
More on applying for the Groundbreakers Program is available here. Applications close on Monday, September 2.
evokeAG 2025 is at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, February 18-19, 2025. The theme will be common ground.
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