The 2026 edition focuses on the theme of ‘Gender equality’, highlighting projects that empower women to actively shape the future of farming and rural areas. These projects support women’s leadership, foster entrepreneurship, promote equal opportunities, and contribute to more inclusive rural communities. This year’s competition will continue to showcase the impact of CAP-funded projects in strengthening food security, enhancing environmental resilience, and supporting the socio-economic fabric of rural areas. In addition, a special ‘Generational Renewal Award’ will recognise a project that stands out for contributing to vibrant rural communities by engaging young people, developing their skills, and creating high-quality employment opportunities in rural areas.
Smart and competitive agriculture
CAP-funded projects that contribute to a smart, competitive, more resilient, and diversified agricultural sector by supporting digitalisation in farming, and by improving productivity, risk management, market access, and bargaining power.
Environmental protection
CAP-funded projects that enhance environmental sustainability, address climate change, support biodiversity, and contribute to increased water resilience, climate adaptation and green recovery.
Socio-economic fabric of rural areas
CAP-funded projects that reinforce the wider rural economy and community beyond primary production, by creating non-agricultural jobs, addressing social inclusion in innovative ways, improving local services and infrastructure, generating social capital, promoting community-led initiatives in rural territories, and empowering rural entrepreneurs and businesses.
Gender equality
CAP-funded projects that empower women to shape the future of farming and rural life by supporting their leadership, entrepreneurial ideas, and equal opportunities, fostering inclusive communities (where everyone can contribute and thrive).
Participating in ARIA is an opportunity to gain recognition and visibility, and connect with like-minded peers in agriculture and rural development.
- Visibility All shortlisted projects will be promoted on our website and social media channels. Projects not shortlisted will still be featured in the Good Practice section of our website, in a dedicated Projects Brochure and across our digital platforms.
- Networking The Awards Ceremony is a vibrant platform for exchange, offering the chance to connect with other inspiring projects and explore future collaborations.
- Recognition Being acknowledged by ARIA adds prestige to your achievements and sets your project as an example to others in agricultural and rural development.
- Positive results By sharing your results, you contribute to a growing library of best practices that inspire change and innovation across Europe.
ARIA awards 26 are now open for submissions!