Innovation

The Scottish Government's Regional Food Fund has awarded bursaries to ten young women to attend the Ethical Farming Conference free of charge.

The successful applicants include a Scottish post-doctoral animal welfare researcher now working in New Zealand, post graduate researchers exploring issues around agri-environment, food security and animal behaviour, veterinary medicine students, small holders and new entrant farmers.

The seventh annual British Farming Awards are now open for entries and nominations in 14 categories.

The awards celebrate the creative thinking, innovation and dedication of Britain's farmers. They are organised by AgriBriefing and supported by Morrisons. 

The award categories are:

Last night, as part of the much anticipated NetworX conference held in Brussels, the European Commissioner Phil Hogan announced the 5 winners of the inaugural Rural Inspiration Awards.

The Scottish Rural Network would like to extend a massive congratulations to all 25 finalists, and the 5 overall winners.

The winners were:

Many businesses are trying businesses are trying to distinguish themselves from their competitors. They want to attract new clients and win new markets.

Getting the recognition for your good environmental practices through VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards could be the solution. The application process is free. All applicants receive tailored feedback with details of free support available.

The 2019 categories are:

Recognising excellence, innovation and outstanding achievement in nature conservation, the eighth annual Nature of Scotland Awards co-sponsored by Scottish Natural Heritage are open for applications until 4 June.

Erasmus has launched a new project, 'Visual Social Enterprise (ViSEnet)', which will share learning material, guidance and networking opportunities to promote social entrepreneurship in rural areas.

Digital Scotland, a business network supporting the Scottish Government's ambition of building a world-leading digital nation, has launched the first 'Smart Village' platform for equipping Scotland's rural communities with the same technologies enjoyed by large cities.

The Rural Innovation Support Service (RISS) has teamed up with Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and the National Farmers’ Union Scotland to invite farmers to three free lunchtime events showcasing the help available for them to make the most out of their upland farm business.

They will also be able to discuss their business ideas and challenges with industry representatives and other farmers.