Oxford Farming Conference Scholars Programme 2027: Fully Funded Leadership Opportunity for Young Agri-Food Changemakers
Overview
The Oxford Farming Conference Scholars Programme 2027 is a leadership and networking initiative created to support the next generation of changemakers in agriculture, rural innovation, and food systems. Spanning a hybrid format from November 2026 to January 2027, the initiative concludes with attendance at the Oxford Farming Conference held in Oxford, United Kingdom. Thirty participants are chosen for the cohort, combining sponsored scholar positions with fully funded Breaking Barriers scholarships.
Who can apply
Applicants must be under 30 years of age, have never previously attended the conference, and show an interest in agriculture, food, farming, or related areas. Formal study or current employment in the agricultural sector is not required, and individuals from non-traditional backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The initiative is split into two pathways. Sponsored scholars are nominated and supported by sponsoring businesses, organizations, charities, or industry groups. Alternatively, the Breaking Barriers scholarship is open to UK residents aged 18 to 30 who have faced significant obstacles in entering the food, farming, or agricultural sector. All participants must be available to take part in the complete schedule between November and January.
What you get
Selected participants receive full access to the Oxford Farming Conference 2027, two nights of accommodation during the event, meals, and official receptions. Additional inclusions comprise entry to the Oxford Union Debate and the Christ Church Dinner, two in-person industry development events, online skills workshops, and peer networking opportunities. Breaking Barriers scholars receive fully funded places, while sponsored scholars have their programme costs covered by their nominating organization, though standard travel expenses are not included.
How to apply
Applications for sponsored scholar positions are submitted directly by the nominating sponsoring organization, whereas Breaking Barriers applicants apply independently through the official Oxford Farming Conference application portal. The application process requires demonstrating leadership potential, a genuine interest in food systems, and an explanation of how the opportunity will influence future career goals.
Key dates
The hybrid programme runs from November 2026 to January 2027, leading into the conference from 6 to 8 January 2027. Breaking Barriers participants must also be available for an additional event on 24 November 2026. The final deadline for both application pathways is 16 October 2026 at 5:00 PM UK time.