About the opportunity
The Land and Soil Management Award, launched in 2008 by the European Landowners’ Organization (ELO), recognizes innovative and sustainable land and soil management practices across Europe. The award aims to promote successful projects as good practices at the European level, enhance the visibility of sustainable farming methods, and encourage farmers to continue developing their work in a sustainable path. The award is presented under the auspices of the European Commission (DG Environment, DG Agriculture, and the Joint Research Centre) and in association with the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU) of Vienna, Syngenta International AG, and the Centre for Soil and Environmental Sciences of the Ljubljana University.
Funding and benefits
- 5,000 € cash prize for the winning project
- Diploma of recognition
- Promotion of the winning project as a good practice at the European level
- Enhanced visibility of the project at local, national, and European scales
Who can apply?
- Open to projects demonstrating outstanding achievements in sustainable soil and land management
- Projects must be located within Europe
- Practices should focus on mitigating soil threats and promoting sustainable land use
Required documents
- Application form (via Google Forms link provided on the official website)
When to apply
- The call for applications is open until January 31, 2027
- The award is presented during the Forum for the Future of Agriculture event on April 20, 2027
How to apply
- Access the official Land and Soil Management Award page on the European Landowners' Organization website
- Complete the application form via the provided Google Forms link
Additional information
- The award has been running since 2008
- Previous winners include projects from various European countries focusing on regenerative agriculture, soil biodiversity, and land restoration
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for farmers, land managers, or research organizations with proven, scalable, and innovative soil management practices
- Strong fit for those looking to gain European-wide recognition and visibility for their sustainable land-use projects
- Excellent opportunity for projects that combine local action with scientific or technological innovation
What should you think carefully about?
- The award is specifically focused on projects within Europe, limiting eligibility for those outside the region
- The application process requires demonstrating a clear, positive impact on soil health or threat mitigation
- Applicants should be prepared to showcase their project as a model for others to follow
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This award is a high-profile platform for individuals and organizations aiming to validate their sustainable land management efforts. It serves as a significant milestone for those seeking to establish their project as a benchmark for European agricultural policy and practice, while also providing a modest financial boost to support further development.
Our take
Farmers, researchers, and land managers with successful, innovative soil-health projects in Europe should strongly consider applying. It is less suitable for those whose projects are purely theoretical or lack a practical, field-tested application.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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