Feb 26, 2025
The Good Farmer Award U.S. to honor regenerative organic practices
Beginning farmers who are committed to regenerative organic and community-focused agriculture practices have a new opportunity to be recognized for their work.
The inaugural Good Farmer Award U.S. was developed to honor regenerative farmers who have been in operation for 10 years or less. The winner will be chosen based on their commitment to environmentally responsible practices that boost biodiversity, promote long-term resilience, garner community engagement, and advance sustainable and equitable systems.
Davines North America, a division of sustainable beauty brand Davines Group, has teamed up with Rodale Institute, an agricultural research and education nonprofit, to introduce the U.S. award. It is a continuation of the Italian edition of The Good Farmer Award, which was first introduced by the European Regenerative Organic Center. The original program promoted sustainable farming techniques and recognized innovators who help further sustainable agriculture.
The Good Farmer Award U.S. winner will receive $10,000 to invest in equipment or initiatives that enhance their agroecological practices. The winner will also receive an all-expenses-paid trip to European Regenerative Organic Center in Parma, Italy. The center, which is part of the Davines Group Village, offers training and research opportunities to further promote regenerative organic practices.
“We’ve been leading the conversation on the ties between agriculture, climate, and soil health for more than seven decades and understand the challenges farmers are facing,” said Rodale Institute CEO Jeff Tkach in a press release. “We know from the research being conducted at Rodale Institute that regenerative organic agriculture will not only produce healthier food for healthier people, but it can also accelerate carbon sequestration and improve environmental conditions in regions around the world.”
Applications for the Good Farmer Award U.S. can be submitted until 11 p.m. ET on March 22, 2025. Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining how they plan to use the prize money across one or more categories, along with supporting documentation such as a personal statement, photos of their farm and letters of recommendation.
A selection committee, which will include experts in sustainable farming, biodiversity and agroecology, will review the applications. The winner will be announced on Earth Day, April 22 2025. Second- and third-place winners will also be selected, and they will be granted access to Rodale Institute Education Resources, including online courses and workshops to further their regenerative organic farming journey.
