Rural Diversification Business of the Year
For rural businesses that have evolved beyond traditional farming with new revenue, experiences and commercial models.
Diversification is how many rural businesses build resilience: adding new income streams alongside, or instead of, traditional activity.
This award celebrates the farms and rural enterprises that have diversified most successfully, from holiday lets and events to food production, retail and renewable energy.
Who should enter
Any rural business, especially a farm, that has launched a successful new enterprise or income stream. For ideas and context, see our guide to rural business ideas for 2026.
What judges look for
- Commercial success of the diversified enterprise.
- Creativity and ambition of the diversification.
- Resilience and risk reduction it brought to the business.
- Impact on jobs, the land and the local economy.
How to enter
Entry is free. Read how to enter, then start your entry. Diversification is often grant-supported; current schemes are listed on GOV.UK’s funding for farmers and land managers.
Entry Tips
- Use specific figures — revenue, %, headcount, acreage, customers served.
- Back claims with evidence: coverage, quotes, accreditations, photos.
- Focus on the last 24 months of performance.
- Read the criteria carefully and answer them directly.
