Young Sheep
Applications Now Open
Kepak and Bord Bia are seeking applicants for a new initiative designed to inspire the next generation of Irish sheep farmers. The Young Sheep Farmer Forum programme, also supported by Mountbellew Agricultural College, is set to empower young producers, aged between 17- 25 years, to drive innovation, sustainability and growth within the sector, ensuring a dynamic future for sheep farming in Ireland.
📅 Application Deadline: March 20th, 2025
📢Apply now and be part of the generational renewal of Irish sheep farming!
Programme Overview
The forum will bring together 10 young producers from diverse educational backgrounds across Ireland for a yearlong discussion group. Meeting monthly from April to September 2025, participants will explore the full sheep market—from farm to fork. Highlights of the programme include:
- On-Farm Workshops & Site Visits: Learn best practices with visits to research centres like Teagasc, as well as commercially viable enterprises.
- Industry Insights: Gain first-hand exposure to international perspectives with a visit to Bord Bia offices and Rungis—the largest market in France where Kepak supplies lamb.
- Policy Influence: Collaborate on farm-focused recommendations aimed at informing the Government’s Budget 2026.
Addressing Key Challenges
Irish sheep farming faces declining flock numbers, an aging demographic, and rising environmental and market challenges. This programme is your opportunity to:
- Tackle these issues head-on with fresh ideas.
- Enhance the appeal of sheep farming as a rewarding, progressive career.
- Facilitate critical knowledge transfer and showcase the sector’s sustainability and profitability.
Benefits for Participants
- Advocacy & Awareness: Communicate the value of sheep farming to your peers.
- Education & Knowledge Sharing: Access top-tier farming methods through workshops and visits.
- Career & Business Development: Benefit from mentorship and real-world learning opportunities.
- Community & Collaboration: Network with fellow young farmers and industry experts.
- Innovation & Sustainability: Lead student-driven solutions to modernise the sector.
Who Should Apply?
We’re looking for individuals who:
✅ Are actively involved in a sheep flock.
✅ Are creative problem solvers with a drive to make a difference.
✅ Possess strong communication and teamwork skills.
✅ Have a valid driver’s licence and their own mode of transport for travel.
Programme Commitment
Participants are expected to attend 6 full-day group sessions and 1 overseas event over the summer of 2025 (approximately one meeting per month from April through September).
