Enterprise Ireland has opened applications for its Innovation Arena at the National Ploughing Championships taking place from 19-21 September in Ratheniska, Co.Laois.

The Innovation Arena will provide more than 50 companies from the agri sector with the opportunity to showcase their pioneering innovations to over 250,000 visitors at the Championships. 

This year sees the chance for previous participants to apply for a space in the new ‘AgTech Hub’ within the Arena which will give companies the opportunity to return to the Innovation Arena to showcase their progress and growth since first exhibiting. 

Judging for the awards will take place on the first day of the event featuring categories such as best start-up. Other categories include the ACE Agri-tech award and the IFAC best newcomer award. The best start-up winner at the Arena will receive €10,000 and will be presented with the prize at a formal awards ceremony.

Leo Clancy, CEO, Enterprise Ireland, said: “Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting companies and entrepreneurs where innovation is at the core of their business offering. The Innovation Arena at the National Ploughing Championships is a key platform for promoting Irish agri-technology, showcasing capabilities to both a captive domestic and international audience over a busy three-day period.

“For the first time, this year’s Arena will feature an AgTech hub, allowing previous exhibitors and early-stage companies to demonstrate the journey they have been on and the successes achieved to date. It will provide budding entrepreneurs in the agri-tech space with a chance to network and engage directly with these companies on the steps taken to grow their business.”

Reporting: Tech Central