Applications are now open for the evokeAG. 2026 Groundbreakers program, an opportunity for the next generation of agrifood innovators to develop their research projects and present them on a global stage.
AgriFutures Australia, formerly the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation, was founded by the federal government in 1990 to fund research and development in Australian rural industries. The organisation has been powering evokeAG. since 2019, a global agrifood technology and innovation event.
The conference has been supporting emerging talent in the agrifood industry which encompasses the entire system involved in producing, processing and distributing food, fibre and agricultural products, since starting out six years ago.
After five successful showcases, the conference is returning to Melbourne for 2026. Australian and New Zealand residents that are considered changemakers in their rural communities and have a project that is demonstrating impact are encouraged to apply to present through the Groundbreakers program.
Five innovators aged 18-30 will be given the opportunity to present on stage at evokeAG. 2026, taking place in Melbourne on 17-18 February – sharing their innovation or research with a global audience of industry leaders, innovators, investors and producers.
Each Groundbreaker will receive a $3000 bursary to support their professional or project development, along with one-on-one mentoring from industry experts. The program also includes professional video and photography support, and a post-evokeAG. strategy session to build on connections and momentum gained during the event.
AgriFutures Australia acting general manager for global innovation networks, Angela Wakeman, said the Groundbreakers Program empowers emerging changemakers who are tackling complex challenges and sets them up to drive lasting change across rural industries.
“There is no shortage of inspiring young talent across Australia and New Zealand’s agrifood sector,” said Wakeman.
“The Groundbreakers Program connects these innovators with the right people, tools and platforms to elevate their ideas and accelerate their impact. It’s about unlocking potential and backing the next wave of young innovators who are driving positive impact across the agrifood sector.
“At the same time, the program supports the development of a skilled, connected and future-ready agricultural workforce,” she said.
Previous presentations have included research into sustainable seaweed aquaculture and permaculture initiatives, to sustainable indoor plant factories and the development of recyclable livestock ear tags.
Applications are now open and will close on 3 August 2025. The successful participants will be announced on 9 October. For more information on how to apply for the Groundbreakers Program, visit evokeag.com.
