NI Farming Awards 2026: Honouring the best in the business

The NI Farming Awards have returned for another year to celebrate Northern Ireland’s hard working and resilient individuals and businesses with a range of categories, providing the opportunity to gain recognition for contributions made to the industry.

For over 11 years, the Farming Awards have been celebrating innovation, diversification, talent and entrepreneurship across the agricultural sector in Northern Ireland.

Last year's winners from NI Farming Awards 2025, smartly dressed in their black tie attire.

placeholder image — Last year's winners from NI Farming Awards 2025, smartly dressed in their black tie attire.

A sector built on dedication, resilience and growth, it continues to thrive through the hard work and commitment of the individuals and businesses who work tirelessly to feed communities, protect the countryside and drive the industry forward.

With 16 categories, there is one to suit all businesses, individuals and communities that operate within NI’s farming industry. The awards welcome everyone; from young farmers who strive to shape the future of farming and the businesses that are continuously growing and embracing new approaches to the individuals who have devoted their lives to the agricultural sector and deserve a prestigious award for their dedication.

The Awards commence at 6.30pm on September 17 in the Culloden Estate & Spa in Holywood, Belfast, giving everyone the unique opportunity to dress up and embrace the black tie attire of the evening.

The deadline for nominations is August 3.

The categories and sponsors for the NI Farming Awards are as follows:

- Agri-Food Business of the Year

– Family Business of the Year

– Farm Safety Affiliate Award

– Farm Shop of the Year

- Farmer of the Year

- Farm Diversification Award

- Farming Event of the Year

- Farming Society of the Year

- Innovation in Agriculture sponsored by Openreach

– Lifetime Achievement