Fieldays calls for entries to 2026 Innovation Awards
Entries have opened for the 2026 Fieldays Innovation Awards.
Now in their 58th year, the awards recognise ideas, products and services that lift performance and sustainability across the primary sector, while helping innovators move from concept to commercial impact. A prize pool of more than $75,000 in cash, services and products allows entrants to gain access to expert guidance, national and international exposure.
Long-term sponsor AgriTech New Zealand has refocused its attention for the 2026 awards, strengthening its reach through its national and international networks. CEO Brendan O’Connell, a member of the judging panel, said the alignment with the awards was an easy decision.
“The Awards continue to attract exceptional entries that shape the future of agriculture and food production, something we are proud to support and advocate for,” said O’Connell.
Accepted entries will be showcased during Fieldays within the Innovation Hub, a dedicated space for innovators to connect with thousands of visitors, industry leaders, and potential partners over four days.
Entries are invited from all areas of the primary sector, including dairy, meat, wool, forestry, horticulture (including viticulture), seafood (including aquaculture and fishing), arable farming, ‘agritech, foodtech & greentech’ and manufacturing, as well as the technologies, machinery, and systems that support them.
The three award categories include the Prototype Award, the Early-Stage Award and the Growth & Scale Award, cumulatively representing the full innovation lifecycle. Additional recognition includes the Fieldays Young Innovator of the Year and the People’s Choice Award, the latter voted for by Fieldays visitors. International entries are welcome in the Early-Stage and Growth & Scale categories.
Entry closes on Friday, 24 April 2026, with winners announced at a private awards function during Fieldays at Mystery Creek Events Centre on Thursday, 11 June 2026. For full entry details and criteria, visit fieldays.co.nz/innovation.
