Applications are now open for the Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) Inspire Programme, which enables people from across the food and farming sector to attend the conference for the first time.

"The greatest opportunity for British agriculture lies in its people, and we believe the next generation holds the key for the future of farming," says Paul Harris, managing director at REAL Success, which is partnering with the Inspire Programme alongside BASF Agricultural Solutions.

The successful applicants will be selected on merit and will spend an away day together before the conference, helping them to create connections that will enable them to make the most of their time at the OFC.

The programme, managed and delivered by the OFC, has helped previous attendees develop their professional and interpersonal skills as well as create strong networks. "By investing in the candidates' confidence, self-awareness, relationships and leadership, we can create an industry which allows people and businesses to thrive," says Mr Harris.

There are also opportunities to meet and hear from successful leaders across the sector, from business to the media and the supply chain. "It provides a unique opportunity to view leadership through a very different lens than their day-to-day roles."

Not only do delegates get to attend the away day and the conference, but the group will also receive support from programme partners like REAL Success. "The next generation are crucial to the future of the industry, and we look forward to supporting and guiding them," he says.

Past delegate, OFC Director and Inspire Programme Lead, Kelly Hewson-Fisher, has experienced first-hand the difference the programme can make. "Having been a delegate on this programme in 2022, I can vouch for its success in aligning with the conference mission of challenge, inspire and include," she says.

"We have a fantastic agenda planned for our November event with inspiring leaders from across the agri-food sector, along with exciting visits that will really challenge delegates. We are grateful to our partners BASF and REAL Success for their support and for the knowledge and experience they bring to the programme."

To apply, potential candidates must be 30 to 45 years old, actively involved in the rural, food and/or farming sector and have not attended the OFC previously. They must also be available to attend the away day (16-17 November 2026) and conference (6-8 January 2027).

·       Applications close on 14 September 2026. To apply visit: https://www.ofc.org.uk/inspire-programme

·       For more information about REAL Success visit: https://real-success.co.uk/