Ideas relating to any area of the food chain are eligible, from the supply of inputs and primary production, through transport and processing, regulation and feed assurance, to retailing, product labelling and food preparation.

"So whether it's an opportunity to increase demand or add product value, a concept for reducing costs or increasing efficiency, or a way to improve animal welfare or reduce carbon footprint, now's the time to stand up and be counted," says AB Agri’s Market Insight Manager Donna Rose.

Run in conjunction with the British Pig and Poultry Fair, the ABN Innovation Award offers a £1,000 cash prize for the ultimate winner, plus the opportunity for all selected finalists to pitch their idea to a panel of leading influencers within the British farming and food industries.

The closing date for entries is Monday, 16 April, with applicants welcome from both within and outside the industry. Judging will be based on the effectiveness, practicality and innovation exhibited by the concept, as well as the quality of presentation.

"It's a great opportunity for individuals with the best ideas to really be seen and be heard by industry influencers," adds Alice Bell, Assistant Director, RASE Events. "The first ABN Innovation Award in 2010 was a great success, and we’re looking forward to more fantastic innovations this year."

Full rules and an entry form can be found here, or by calling ABN on 01733 871 386.