Across the UK, women have always played a vital role in agriculture – as farmers, innovators, educators, and leaders. The newly established Women in Agriculture Network celebrates these contributions and supports their continued growth and recognition.
New platform
Our ambition is to build a network and community of women working in the farming sector, to support women to build contacts and friendships and make progress in their careers
The awards scheme, launched in 2023, was the starting point in creating the community and network of outstanding women who can become mentors and role models to the next generation of women in farming.
Leadership & representation
The network will formally launch in November 2025 with the first in a series of webinars. The opening session, themed “Leadership & Representation,” will showcase women who are shaping farming. This webinar will also set out the mission of the network, which is to promote leadership and business skills, encourage mentorship, and highlight the challenges and contributions of women in agriculture.
Speakers will include award-winning farmers and leaders in policy and agri-business.
To support ongoing dialogue, an online community will also launch on Staypost, where members can sign up, connect, and continue sharing ideas and experiences beyond the events.
By launching this initiative, the network will build on the momentum of the National Women in Agriculture Awards, which have highlighted the breadth of talent and innovation among women in the sector. The network will provide a year-round space to continue these conversations, share knowledge, and inspire change.
Food and farming journalist Chloe Ryan, who has chaired the judging panel for the Women in Agriculture Awards for the past two years, said: “When we set up the awards in 2023, we always planned to develop a network, so I am excited to be launching a scheme specifically designed to support and celebrate the work women in agriculture do.
“Feeding the nation is vital, but often gets less recognition than it deserves. At such a tumultuous time for agriculture and the wider economy, this scheme will shine a light on the brilliant women and businesses steering the industry through.”
“The Women in Agriculture network is about building a community where women can share knowledge, inspire one another, and shape the future of farming and food. By connecting women from across the sector, we can create real momentum and ensure representation at every table where decisions about agriculture are made.”
Awards
The third National Women in Agriculture Awards will open for nominations in November 2025, offering another opportunity to recognise outstanding women across the industry.
The November webinar marks the beginning of an ambitious programme of events, discussions, and opportunities designed to strengthen the role of women in agriculture. Future webinars will explore sustainability, innovation, education, and the changing face of rural business.