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 – Finalists will soon be announced – Stay tuned!
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.
Submissions are closed
This year, we are thrilled to have received 128 entries, from 26 Member States and 27 National Networks, showcasing a wide range of inspiring projects. We are currently in the process of carefully evaluating each submission, and we look forward to announcing the shortlisted projects in October. The announcement will coincide with the launch of the popular vote, giving the public an opportunity to support their favourite projects. Stay tuned!
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
