In this update, the Farmer Scientist Network’s upcoming artificial intelligence and cyber security event is billed by Dr Dave George, the Network’s Chair and Lecturer at Newcastle University.
As someone who works closely with agricultural students, farmers, researchers and innovators, I’m constantly reminded how quickly global events can ripple into the day to day running of a British farm.
Right now, the conflict involving Iran is doing exactly that, and while we must remain positive and focused on solutions, it’s important to acknowledge the realities shaping our trading environment.
Over the past month, we’ve seen the cost of key farm inputs rise sharply, particularly fuel and fertiliser. As a result, growers enter spring planting facing difficult cost pressures.
This isn’t just an energy story. Fertiliser shortages triggered by the conflict are raising agricultural input costs worldwide and could push food prices higher if supply issues persist through the early growing season.
Fertilisers applied now influence yields later in the year, meaning reduced availability today risks lower harvests tomorrow.
As a farming business at Newcastle University, we have already booked around 25 per cent of next year’s fertilizer, and will look to make some savings, without impacting yields, this year to carry more forward.
We’ve paid a high price but wanted to mitigate some risk.
For UK farmers, this mix of rising costs and market uncertainty inevitably feeds into questions about food security.
But while the challenges are real, the opportunities to strengthen our resilience are equally real, and they’re right on our doorstep.
Training and events to support farm businesses
With thanks to support from Anglo American, the Farmer Scientist Network has secured a £7,500 grant through its Thriving Communities programme.
This enables us to provide more training and events throughout 2026, including fully funded sustainable land management training delivered with The Allerton Project, and later in the year a hands on session exploring what the latest Sustainable Farming Incentive and Biodiversity Net Gain updates mean in practice.
More than 100 farmers are expected to benefit directly.
Making AI work for your farm
Our next major opportunity is on Thursday 16 April, The Connected Farm: Staying Safe and Getting Ahead with AI.
In times like these, technology isn’t a luxury; it’s one of the clearest routes to cutting waste, improving decision making and building resilience into every corner of the business.
This event is designed for farmers who want straight talking, practical advice – no tech jargon – along with real farm examples that show where AI can save time and reduce costs.
We’ll also tackle digital security, which is becoming as essential as physical farm security in a modern trading environment.
Join us at Malton & Norton RUFC, 6.30-9.30pm, with a complimentary hot buffet and plenty of time to share experiences with others facing the same pressures.
Funding opportunities and celebrating innovation
Another crucial opportunity this spring is the final standalone round of the Farming Equipment and Technology Fund (FETF) 2026, offering £50 million to help businesses invest in productivity boosting and welfare improving equipment.
With the deadline on 28 April, it’s an important chance to upgrade your farm at a time when efficiency has never mattered more.
We’re also encouraging businesses to enter the Great Yorkshire Show Innovation Awards 2026, highlighting creativity and practical problem solving across our region.
And if you’ve ever considered running an on-farm trial, Defra’s new £2,500 Facilitator Support Grant could help turn early-stage ideas into robust applications for the Full ADOPT programme.
The months ahead may bring continued uncertainty in global markets. But farmers have always adapted, and with the right tools, support and innovation, we can continue to build a more resilient and secure food system here in the UK.
To book your place at The Connected Farm event and to enter the GYS Innovation Awards, please use the buttons below.
The Connected Farm: Staying Safe and Getting Ahead with Artificial Intelligence
Thursday 16 April 2026
Malton and Norton RUFC, 6.30pm arrival, 7pm supper
Places are FREE but must be booked in advance to inform catering
Why attend?
Whether you’re curious about digital technologies or looking to strengthen your farm’s resilience, this session is packed with practical advice, inspiring case studies, and opportunities to ask the experts, all starting with a hot complimentary buffet.
- Gain insights from policy makers, including perspectives from the Feeding Britain Report on the future of agriculture in the UK.
- Learn from experts how to safeguard your farm against cyber threats, scams, and connected machinery vulnerabilities.
- Hear examples of AI in action on farms, from precision tools to automation, and discover how it can boost productivity.
- Network with fellow farmers, policy makers, and industry specialists, and gain resources to help your farm thrive in a digital world.
