The Ministry of Agriculture of Latvia invites farmers and rural entrepreneurs, young farmers, food producers and retailers, as well as rural families to apply for the “Sējējs 2026” competition.
Over the past several years, the application process for the competition has been significantly simplified. To nominate a participant, applicants must complete the online application form available at www.sejejs.lv by 26 June 2026. The application form requires only basic information: the name of the farm or company, location (parish, municipality, or city), email address and telephone number (if available), as well as the justification for the nomination. Additional descriptive information may also be attached if necessary. Importantly, applicants are not required to submit data on the participant’s economic activity, making the process quick and convenient.
Minister for Agriculture Armands Krauze stated: “The "Sējējs" competition has traditionally highlighted individuals whose work strengthens Latvia’s rural areas and promotes local food production. It is important for us to recognise both experienced farmers and young people who are taking over and continuing this work. I encourage everyone to nominate candidates and showcase inspiring examples that inspire others to grow and develop, thereby strengthening sustainable agriculture and the food production sector in Latvia. Public involvement is equally important — everyone will have the opportunity to support their favourites in the ‘Public Recognition’ vote, highlighting those whose work is especially appreciated by society as a whole.”
This year, competition participants will be evaluated in nine categories, including recognition for lifetime achievement in agriculture. In seven of these categories — “Rural Farm of the Year”, “Food Production Company of the Year”, “Rural Family Homestead”, “Young Successful Farmer”, “Local Food Retailer of the Year”, “Organic Farm”, and “LEADER Project of the Year in a Local Action Group” — candidates may be nominated by both individuals and legal entities, as well as by the farms and companies themselves. Meanwhile, the category “Sower of Tomorrow – Rural Youth Club” will evaluate participants from rural youth organisations, symbolising the continuity of rural farming traditions across generations.
Competition laureates will receive the “Sējējs” Annual Award bronze statuette, a diploma from the Ministry of Agriculture, and a monetary prize. Participants will be honoured during the competition’s closing ceremony in autumn 2026. The competition regulations, evaluation criteria, and other related information are available on the “Sējējs” website at www.sejejs.lv.
As in previous years, members of the public will also have the opportunity to support their favourite candidates by participating in the “Public Recognition” vote for all “Sējējs 2026” nominees. Detailed information on online voting for nominated candidates will be announced separately during the summer.
