Oxford Farming Conference Launches “Inspiring Innovators” Program for 2025
In collaboration with McCain Foods (GB) Ltd., the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) has announced the start of the “Inspiring Innovators” program for the conference in 2025.
At one of the most prominent farming conferences in the UK, this innovative new project provides trailblazers in the agricultural, food, and rural sectors with a unique platform to present their concepts, findings, or innovative technology to an esteemed audience.
The 2025 OFC, which has the theme “Facing Change, Finding Opportunity,” will be held from January 8–10. During the program’s initial session on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, in the afternoon, up to six chosen participants will have the chance to propose their ideas.
Jude McCann, and Sheena Horner, both OFC Directors, initiated the idea.
“The Inspiring Innovators program 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,” Horner said.
Additionally, candidates will receive professional presentation and skill training at the Scarborough McCain Foods facility. The goal of this training day, which is set for November 19, 2024, is to make sure that the individuals selected can effectively convey their thoughts. A complete conference ticket, which includes lodging, will also be given to each chosen entrepreneur, enabling them to interact and network with over 700 attendees throughout the conference.
The OFC is renowned for gathering the brightest minds and most influential figures in British agriculture, and the Inspiring Innovators program aligns perfectly with the conference’s mission to promote inclusive, diverse, and challenging discussions.
“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 program 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,” Geoff Sansome, Chairman of OFC 2025, expressed his enthusiasm for the new initiative.
“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,” James Hopwood, McCain’s Director of Agriculture, added.
Individuals interested in participating in the Inspiring Innovators program 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 5 pm on Monday, 30 September 2024.
