Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards 2025: Shaping tomorrow together
#ARIAwards25 are now open for submissions!
The competition
We are delighted to announce the third edition of the Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards (ARIA), where we are again searching out the greenest, smartest, most socially inclusive, innovative and resilient projects funded under the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) and implemented at the local level.
The theme of ARIA this year focuses on ‘Generational renewal’ and projects that sustain rural economies and actively involve young people in shaping the future of rural communities.
This year’s competition will continue to spotlight projects funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and/or the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF). The Awards promote food security, environmental resilience and the socio-economic fabric of rural areas. Additionally, a special Gender Equality Award will be given to a project that contributes to gender equality.
Smart & competitive agriculture
CAP-funded projects that contribute to a smart, competitive, resilient, and diversified agricultural sector, ensuring long-term food security.
Environmental protection
CAP-funded projects that enhance environmental sustainability, address climate change, support biodiversity, and contribute to green recovery.
Socio-economic fabric of rural areas
CAP-funded projects that strengthen the economic resilience of rural Europe, address social inclusion in innovative ways, support digitalisation in farming and empower rural entrepreneurs and businesses.
Generational Renewal
CAP-funded projects that help ensure vibrant rural communities by engaging young people while developing their skills and creating high-quality rural jobs.
Special awards
In addition to the main category winners, two additional awards will be presented:
The ‘Popular Vote’ award
The Popular Vote award will be decided by the public through an online voting system.
The ‘Gender Equality’ award
The Gender Equality award will be decided by the jury and will be awarded to the shortlisted project that makes significant strides in advancing gender equality in rural areas.
Why participate?
Participating in ARIA is an opportunity to gain recognition and visibility, and to connect with like-minded peers in agriculture and rural development.
- Visibility All shortlisted projects will be promoted on our website and social media channels. Projects not shortlisted will still be featured in the Good Practice section of our website and across our digital platforms.
- Networking The Awards Ceremony is a vibrant platform for exchange, offering the chance to connect with other inspiring projects and explore future collaborations.
- Recognition Being acknowledged by ARIA adds prestige to your achievements and sets your project as an example to others in agricultural and rural development.
- Positive results By sharing your results you contribute to a growing library of best practices that inspire change and innovation across Europe.
Hear from previous winners in this article about projects that were shortlisted for the 2019 Rural Inspiration Awards. See how they have continued to evolve and grow, and the impact their participation in the Awards has had.
Take the first step towards becoming a finalist – or even a winner – in the 2025 edition. Be part of ARIA!
How to apply?
Applications can be submitted only through National Networks. If you are interested, please contact your Network to inform them about your project and interest in participating in ARIA. Keep in mind that each National Network may have a distinct deadline for submitting projects, so make sure to apply on time.
You can find more on the competition process, eligibility, award criteria and categories in the guidelines and application form.
ARIA 2025 Guidelines and entry template
(DOCX – 195.17 KB)
Stay Connected
Explore highlights from previous editions and browse our communication resources below. To follow all the latest updates, use the hashtag #ARIAwards25 on social media.
For any questions, feel free to reach out to us at: aria@eucapnetwork.eu
