We're seeding the future
We need more role models that showcase how farming is good for people and the planet.
Today, just 12% of farmers in the EU are under the age of 40. At the same time, the current food system, which is built on chemical, industrial agriculture, is broken.
Top 50 Farmers is putting a spotlight on the farmers who are practicing and transitioning to regenerative agriculture.
The goal is to inspire a new generation to enter the field and raise awareness about the power of regenerative agriculture by showcasing what's possible.
Top 50 Farmers believes in healthy soils and defines regenerative agriculture as farming methods regenerating the microbiome nutrient cycle in soils.
According to Top 50 Farmers, a regenerative agriculture system applies the following practices:
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Minimizing soil disturbance
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Keeping the soil covered
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Crop diversity, companion cropping & rotation
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Agroforestry and reforestation, rewilding
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Livestock integration
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Composting
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No use of of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, genetically modified organisms, antibiotics or growth hormones
Farms practicing and transitioning to regenerative agriculture
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Located in the EU, Switzerland, EEA or the UK.
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Registered as a business
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Actively applying regenerative practices
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Have a clear timeline for phasing out synthetic pesticides and fertilizers
To apply, the farm must be
Farms using seedlings grown in a greenhouse that will spend the majority of their life in soils can be nominated and apply.
Farms using crops grown in soil with greenhouse cover can also apply.
What about greenhouse growing?
Top 50 Farmers focuses on supporting farms building healthy soil through regenerative agriculture.
For this reason, soil-less practices such as aquaponics, hydroponics and container growing where crops are never integrated into a field are not eligible for the nomination.
You are not eligible if...
Share your story
Top 50 Farmers will work to share your farm's story to create awareness about regenerative agriculture and showcase different models for what farming can look like.
Mastermind Group
You will also join the mastermind groups meeting quarterly with industry executives from the food and finance sectors to share your opinions on how we can scale regenerative agriculture as an industry.
Support
You will also gain access to a support system of other farmers, organizations, and advocates who are here to support you and address help problem solve whatever challenges you might be experiencing on your farm.
Nominations Open
Farms can apply directly or be nominated by someone in their community. To be notified when applications open, sign up for our newsletter.
Phase 1
Selection Committee Reviews the Applications
Our team will review all applications. The Selection Committee will ultimately decide who the Top 50 are.
Phase 2
The Top 50 Are Notified
We will send an email out notifying if you have been selected for the Top 50 Farmers.
Even if you are not selected for the Top 50, all farmers that apply gain access to our open database of organizations and resources working to help regenerative farmers in Europe.
Phase 3
Award Ceremony
You will be celebrated at an Award Ceremony alongside the media, our partners, and leaders of the regenerative movement. This is a community gathering to meet each other, exchange knowledge, and welcome you into the Top 50 Farmers network.
Phase 4
Mastermind Groups
The mastermind groups kick off. These are quarterly meetings with industry executives from the food and finance sectors and other regenerative farmers to explore how we can scale regenerative agriculture as an industry.
Phase 5
Networking and Support
Additionally, you'll have access to a network of organizations and advocates ready to provide guidance and assistance, addressing any challenges that may surface on your farm journey.
Ongoing
FAQ's
Yes! Everyone can nominate a farmer. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified when applications open.
Yes! If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, fill out the contact form or send us an email at info@top50farmers.org
If your organization would like to join the T50F network, fill out this application with more information about how you are working to advance regenerative agriculture in Europe.
One of our team members will follow up on email with details about what membership looks likes and next steps for getting involved.
The waitlist is now open to join the Top 50 Farmer's Mastermind groups. You can add yourself to the list here.
You can meet the Team behind Top 50 Farmers here.