Agri-TechE and Society of Agriculture continue to strengthen their early-career communities

Agri-TechE and the Society of Agriculture (SocAg) have announced a second year of collaboration, building on the original partnership established with IAgrM. While SocAg is newly launched, this continued collaboration reflects the strong foundations of that earlier relationship and a shared commitment to creating new opportunities for early-career individuals and professionals across both communities.

The agreement includes joint promotion of the Early Career Innovators’ Forum (ECIF) programme through both organisations’ networks, alongside reciprocal opportunities for members to attend Agri-TechE and Society of Agriculture events.

Most notably, ECIF members will be offered the opportunity to apply for two fully funded places on the Society of Agriculture’s Farm Management Skills Programme (FMSP).

Luke Brignall was one of the ECIF participants selected for a fully funded place on the FMSP in 2025, highlighting the practical value of the partnership in supporting professional development.  Luke says:

“The Farm Management Skills Programme” has been a fantastic experience. It’s strengthened my confidence in business planning and strategic farm management, developed my leadership and people management skills, and introduced me to friends for life. Learning alongside other forward-thinking professionals has been hugely valuable.”

ECIF is a platform that brings together early-career individuals with an interest in agri-tech through a diverse programme of virtual and in-person activities, sponsored by the Morley Agricultural Foundation. Agri-TechE has delivered ECIF since its inception twelve years ago and will now continue the programme with the support of the Society of Agriculture.

Kate Brunswick, Business Development Associate at Agri-TechE, recognises the strength of the collaboration in enabling opportunities for individuals from a wide range of professional backgrounds to participate in ECIF.

“The opportunity gives Society of Agriculture members the chance to better understand the agri-tech world and the exciting innovations currently in development,” says Kate. “It also offers researchers, those considering a move into an agri-tech role, and technology developers valuable insight into the realities of practical farm management.”

Victoria Bywater, Director of the Society of Agriculture, says:

“The Society of Agriculture is passionate about supporting the next generation of professionals who will shape the future of agriculture. As the UK’s independent professional body for agricultural leadership, we are committed to raising professional standards and strengthening strategic thinking across the sector.

“This collaboration with Agri-TechE allows us to connect emerging talent with the practical knowledge, networks and professional development opportunities they need to thrive. We are offering ECIF participants the chance to apply for two fully funded places on the Farm Management Skills Programme this year, hosted at Harper Adams University.”

With the annual ECIF conference scheduled for 23 April 2026, now is an ideal time to join the programme.

Visit the Agri-TechE website for more information, to join ECIF or to register for the ECIF conference.

Details about the Farm Management Skills Programme are available on the Society of Agriculture website: www.soc-ag.org