Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards 2026: When equality powers the next generation
Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards 2026: When equality powers the next generation
#ARIAwards26 are now open for submissions!
The competition
We are pleased to launch the fourth edition of the Agricultural and Rural Inspiration Awards (ARIA). Once again, we are looking for the most outstanding projects funded under the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) and implemented at local level – projects that are green, smart, socially inclusive, innovative and resilient.
The 2026 edition focuses on the theme of ‘Gender equality’, highlighting projects that empower women to actively shape the future of farming and rural areas. These projects support women’s leadership, foster entrepreneurship, promote equal opportunities, and contribute to more inclusive rural communities.
This year’s competition will continue to showcase the impact of CAP-funded projects in strengthening food security, enhancing environmental resilience, and supporting the socio-economic fabric of rural areas.
In addition, a special ‘Generational Renewal Award’ will recognise a project that stands out for contributing to vibrant rural communities by engaging young people, developing their skills, and creating high-quality employment opportunities in rural areas.
Smart and competitive agriculture
CAP-funded projects that contribute to a smart, competitive, more resilient, and diversified agricultural sector by supporting digitalisation in farming, and by improving productivity, risk management, market access, and bargaining power.
Environmental protection
CAP-funded projects that enhance environmental sustainability, address climate change, support biodiversity, and contribute to increased water resilience, climate adaptation and green recovery.
Socio-economic fabric of rural areas
CAP-funded projects that reinforce the wider rural economy and community beyond primary production, by creating non-agricultural jobs, addressing social inclusion in innovative ways, improving local services and infrastructure, generating social capital, promoting community-led initiatives in rural territories, and empowering rural entrepreneurs and businesses.
Gender equality
CAP-funded projects that empower women to shape the future of farming and rural life by supporting their leadership, entrepreneurial ideas, and equal opportunities, fostering inclusive communities (where everyone can contribute and thrive).
Special awards
In addition to the main category winners, two additional awards will be presented:
Popular Vote award
The Popular Vote award will be decided by the public through an online voting system.
Generational Renewal award
The Generational Renewal award will be decided by the jury and will be awarded to the shortlisted project that makes significant strides in engaging young people in rural areas, together with developing their skills and creating high-quality rural jobs.
Why participate?
Participating in ARIA is an opportunity to gain recognition and visibility, and 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, in a dedicated Projects Brochure 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 the winner of the ARIA 2025 Gender Equality Award in this article on how projects are fostering new gender role models, boosting awareness, and embedding equality across CAP-funded initiatives, from workshops and podcasts to community leadership by women.
Take the first step towards becoming a finalist – or even a winner - in the 2026 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 2026 - Guidelines for entry submission and application form
(DOCX – 215.42 KB)
Stay Connected
Explore highlights from previous editions and browse our communication resources below. To follow all the latest updates, use the hashtag #ARIAwards26 on social media.
For any questions, feel free to reach out to us at: aria@eucapnetwork.eu
