Supported by Defra
If you have an exciting business idea but need training to help make your ambitions a reality, then NFYFC’s Business Innovation Challenge is for you!
We’re offering six lucky winners the opportunity to make connections and find relevant training to further their business plans, as well as win a range of exciting prizes.
There are two categories to enter (one for under 18s and one for over 18s) where you’ll need to share your business idea, with a view to launching it in 2032 – NFYFC’s 100th anniversary.
Your business idea can be a land-based business or diversification, an innovation start-up in food or farming or a social enterprise business.
Find out how to enter and the prizes on offer by using the links below.
The judges are looking for entries that show clear vision and how it will develop, identify the problems you’re solving and why, and outline the training needed to achieve your goals.
They want to see your confidence in approaching people and creating new markets, evidence of strong business and financial planning, and the innovation behind your idea. Above all, they’re interested in ideas that can be discussed, developed, and supported.
Founder of TwoCan Mentor
Helen Wyman is the founder of Twocan and a 2022 Nuffield Scholar, where she explored how mentoring can drive positive change in agriculture.
She previously worked across farming and the renewable sectors in technical and business development roles, giving her a broad understanding of both people and industry.
Today, she leads Twocan Mentor, a programme that connects individuals across the food, farming, and horticultural ecosystem to build confidence, leadership, and collaboration.
Former director of School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE)
As founding Director and CEO of Cornwall School for Social Entrepreneurs CIC, and later SSE’s national Director of Development & External Affairs, I’ve led strategic growth, income generation, and cross-sector collaboration to deepen impact and extend influence.
In 2024, I returned to my rural roots, connecting and convening communities, and supporting mission-led businesses with a particular focus on how alternative business models can strengthen UK horticulture and contribute to sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems. I’m especially interested in the insights these approaches offer for policy and practice, and how they can shape hopeful, practical responses to the climate and social challenges we face.
I’m delighted to join the panel as a judge, exploring bold, thoughtful business ideas fit for a sustainable future.
Chief Executive of NAAC (National Association of Agricultural Contractors)
Jill is the Chief Executive of the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) and has dedicated over twenty years to the organisation. Her passion for farming drives her commitment to influencing the industry and advocating for agricultural contractors on various issues, including fuel and grant funding.
Safety is a top priority for Jill, and she has implemented numerous initiatives to help NAAC members enhance their safety management practices.
Growing up on a farm in Lincolnshire, Jill’s background is deeply rooted in agriculture. She is a Winston Churchill Memorial Scholar and has completed the Institute of Agricultural Management (IAgrM) Leadership Development Programme. Additionally, she is a Fellow of both the IAgrM and the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE).
