Farmers and growers can apply directly for £2,000 of investment to test ideas to tackle real problems in farming on their own farm through a ‘field lab’.
Field labs bring a small group of likeminded farmers together to solve a problem, adapting an approach pioneered in developing countries that supports practical DIY research by farmers.
Up to 15 winners will receive £500 cash towards their time and costs, and at least £1,500 in-kind support from a researcher and facilitator.
Liz Bowles, head of farming at the Soil Association, said: “We’ve run a dozen field labs so far through the Duchy Originals Future Farming Programme, tackling problems ranging from weed control to reducing antibiotic usage in dairy herds. Farmers are already benefitting from the results of the first round and I encourage more farms to get involved.
“We have listened to feedback and we have increased the support on offer to an investment of £2,000, including much-needed practical support.”
In a parallel competition, scientists can apply for up to £25,000 for highly innovative, practical projects suggested by farmers to tackle three key challenges for organic and low-input agriculture:
Source: Soil Association
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024