What is the competition?
The future of the agriculture industry lies in the hands of the next generation. In Northern Ireland we have a unique family farm structure, and we hope that pupils participating in this competition will gain a greater insight into business management, efficiency and how they can continue farming sustainably, whilst enhancing their communication and interpersonal skills, in preparation for interviews for college, university or employment.
In groups (minimum two and maximum five), pupils will be provided with two case studies (choosing one) where they will devise a business plan/proposal on how to make the farm more financially viable and sustainable.
The competition, open to pupils in Year 11 – 14 who are part of an agricultural club within school or are studying agriculture as a subject or topic.
Stages
The new agriculture competition is split into two stages. The first stage is a short video summarising the business proposal, with the second stage comprising of an in-depth presentation followed by a panel question and answer session.
Stage 1:
A short video of the groups business plan (Max 5 minutes)
The video must include:
- Introduction to the pupils in the group, school/club and case study selected
- Outline briefly their thoughts on how the farm could become more sustainable and financially viable in the future
- What are the positives and challenges with the business proposal
- Pupils’ thoughts on the future of the Northern Ireland agricultural industry
The closing date for entries: Friday 12 April 2024 with finalists being on Monday 15 April 2024.
Stage 2:
A 15-20 minute presentation on how the group will implement their business plan taking into consideration:
- Implementation of business plan and timeline
- Reasoning behind the proposal
- Financial plan – Cash flow projections
- Breakdown of other organisations / businesses that potentially supported their proposal
- Farm efficiencies and new technologies
- If applicable, how would the farm promote their new business venture
Followed by a 10-minute question and answer session from the judges.
Finalists will deliver presentations on week commencing Monday 29 April 2024.
Prizes sponsored by the Ulster Farmers’ Union
- First place: £750 for the school, RUAS Balmoral Show tickets for pupils and accompanying teacher and UFU branded merchandise.
- Second place: £500 for the school, RUAS Balmoral Show tickets for pupils and accompanying teacher and UFU branded merchandise.
Send entries to:
UFU communications officer Lynsay Hawkes at lhawkes@ufuhq.com. For more information and to view the case studies, contact Lynsay UFU HQ (028) 9037 0222.