Tesco has renewed its partnership with Harper Adams University School of Sustainable Food and Farming for a further three years, extending its Future Farmer Programme aimed at developing the next generation of British farmers.
The programme, which has already supported more than 200 farmers, is designed to build confidence, knowledge and practical skills to help create more resilient and sustainable farm businesses.
Applications are now open for the 2026/27 cohort, with a deadline of July 31. Farmers under 40 are being encouraged to apply. The initiative combines industry visits, online learning and mentorship from experts across the food and farming supply chain.
Participants gain first-hand insight into every stage of the food system, from farm to retailer, while exploring practical approaches to climate, nature, productivity and long-term business resilience.
The extension builds on Tesco’s wider work with farmers and growers to strengthen UK agriculture and support the transition to more sustainable food production.
Recent surveys highlighted the need for more practical support and knowledge-sharing around sustainable farming and biodiversity. The programme is designed to help close that gap by giving young farmers access to expert guidance, peer networks and real-world examples of sustainable change.
Insights from the programme have also fed into Tesco’s Greenprint for UK Farming report, developed with the School of Sustainable Food and Farming, which sets out practical policy recommendations to help the sector deliver on climate and nature goals, strengthen food security and attract future talent.
Head of Sustainable Agriculture and Fisheries at Tesco, Natalie Smith said: “We are really proud to continue our support for young British farmers through our Future Farmer Programme.
“As British agriculture’s biggest customer, we know how important it is to invest in the people who will shape the future of farming. Supporting young farmers to build skills in sustainability, innovation and resilience is vital if we are to maintain a strong British food supply chain for generations to come.
“This programme gives farmers practical experience, expert insight and a valuable network of peers across the industry. We’re excited to see the next cohort build on its success and help drive positive change across UK agriculture.”
Director of the School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harper Adams University, Simon Thelwell added: “We are absolutely delighted to continue our partnership with Tesco.
“Over the past three years we have seen first-hand the value of investing in the next generation of farming leaders, helping them build the confidence, networks and skills needed to navigate a rapidly changing industry.
“We are excited to further develop the programme, strengthen its impact and continue supporting ambitious farmers as they transition towards more resilient and sustainable production systems.”
Programme lead at Harper Adams University, Alex Hardie noted: “It is fantastic to have the opportunity to build on the success of the Future Farmer Programme over the next three years. We will be creating even more opportunities for delegates to engage with sustainability, innovation and practical business change that can deliver long-term impact across the sector.”
Farmers can find out more about the programme and apply through the Harper Adams School of Sustainable Food and Farming website.
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