Young people involved in agriculture in Scotland are being offered the chance to win up to £1,000 to develop an innovative idea.
The initiative has been launched by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), Campbell Dallas Chartered Accountants and the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC).
The new award, open to people under 30, was launched at the SAYFC’s first Rural Affairs and Agriculture Conference at the weekend.
The initiative is aimed at encouraging young people to develop “bright spark” ideas which could benefit the Scottish livestock industry.
QMS chairman Jim McLaren said: “Our aim is to attract a wide range of entrants of varying ages across Scotland, and we look forward to receiving entries where the applicants have clearly thought ‘outside the box’ to improve the efficiency or profitability which could in some way benefit the business they are involved in and potentially the wider industry.”
The SAYFC national chairman Laura Fleming said: “We are thrilled to be involved in the new Bright Sparks competition, working with QMS and Campbell Dallas.”
She added: “Whether it is a marketing idea for a farm business, a piece of technology, physical object or adaptation of something already in the market, all ideas will be carefully considered and evaluated.”
Andy Ritchie, head of agriculture with Campbell Dallas Chartered Accountants, said the firm was delighted to be supporting the award.
“Campbell Dallas is committed to helping businesses in the Scottish agricultural industry thrive, and developing innovative opportunities is a key aspect of that.
“We look forward to being part of this award to encourage young people to have the confidence to develop their ideas.”
Applicants are being asked to enter by sending up to 200 words about their idea with the option of a supporting picture.
Alternatively, they can enter by creating a video (of no more than two minutes) explaining why their idea should win the award.
The judging panel will review the entries based on: evidence of innovative idea/s to improve efficiency and/or profitability of the farm business; and the passion and enthusiasm shown by the entrant.
Where relevant, the judges will also be looking to ensure evidence of a high level of health and welfare for farmers and livestock.
The closing date for applications is March 27 next year.
Entries should be sent to info@qmscotland.co.uk.
The winner of the award will be announced next June.
Further information on the QMS Bright Spark Award 2014/15 is available on the QMS and SAYFC websites, by visiting www.qmscotland.co.uk or www.sayfc.org.