Oxford Farming Conference unveils Inspiring Innovators for 2026

The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC), supported by McCain Foods, has announced the four entrepreneurs and researchers selected for its Inspiring Innovators programme, returning for its second year at OFC26.

The programme gives people working across food, farming and the rural economy a platform to share ideas that could strengthen the sector’s future. Each of the selected participants will present their work during the opening session of the conference, which takes place in Oxford from 7-9 January 2026.

Aligned with this year’s conference theme, “Growing Resilience,” the 2026 Innovators will present projects spanning digital technology, mentoring, livestock health and crop diversification.

The 2026 Inspiring Innovators are:

• James Stretton, Just Farm: Just Farm is an artificial intelligence platform designed to simplify subsidy management. It translates agricultural policy into a clear, map-based interface showing what actions qualify for funding, when they’re due and what evidence is required. The system helps farmers save time, reduce complexity and identify opportunities to combine or “stack” options across schemes.
• Isaac Orr, Pneumonitor: Pneumonitor is an in-pen sensor system developed to help prevent pneumonia in calves by monitoring the microclimate conditions that allow disease to develop. The device records real-time data on temperature, humidity, pressure and air quality at calf height, sending alerts when conditions become risky. Designed to integrate with existing housing infrastructure, it provides early warning of health challenges, helping farmers and vets act before symptoms appear and reducing the labour needed for manual checks.
• Helen Wyman, Twocan Mentor: Twocan Mentor connects people from across the food and farming ecosystem through structured mentoring. Using behavioural insights to match participants by learning styles and personal goals rather than job titles, the six-month programme helps build leadership skills, confidence and collaboration across the sector.
• Thomas McVeigh, Copperfield Enterprises: Through Copperfield Enterprises, Thomas McVeigh is exploring hazelnuts as a high-value, climate-resilient tree crop for UK production. His research points to realistic yields of up to four tonnes per hectare and margins of £5,000-£7,000/ha, supported by the potential for shared processing and marketing infrastructure. The crop’s long lifespan, low labour demand and carbon-storage benefits make it a promising diversification option for growers.

The Inspiring Innovators programme was introduced for OFC25 and has already made a lasting impact. Participants from the inaugural cohort have since gone on to secure new partnerships, attract further investment and share their ideas on national and international stages.

Sheena Horner, OFC26 Director said: “The response to Inspiring Innovators last year confirmed there’s a real appetite within the industry for fresh thinking and collaboration. It brought together people who are not only developing great ideas but also willing to share them openly, and that’s what OFC is all about.

“As we mark 90 years of the conference, it feels especially fitting to continue shining a light on those who are challenging convention and finding new ways to strengthen farming’s resilience. This year’s Innovators reflect the diversity, ambition and optimism that define both OFC and the wider industry, and I’m certain their ideas will inspire discussion and action long after the conference closes.”

James Hopwood, Director - Agriculture at McCain, said: "At McCain, we are pleased to further develop our partnership with the Oxford Farming Conference through the 2026 Inspiring Innovators programme. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to supporting visionary leaders and innovative problem-solvers. Together, we aim to empower UK growers, producers, and processors to advance innovation and sustainability throughout the agri-food sector."

Helen Wyman, Twocan Mentor, said: “I’m delighted that Oxford Farming Conference 2026 and its Inspiring Innovators programme offer a stage for Twocan Mentor to bring our vision of a ‘mentorship movement built on connection, development and impact’ to life. We’re proud to support individuals across the food, farming and horticultural ecosystem to build confidence, self-worth and lasting connections that help them thrive.”

Last week, the 2026 Innovators attended a dedicated training day at McCain’s headquarters in Scarborough, where they received presentation and communications coaching and refined their talks ahead of the conference. As part of the programme, each Innovator also receives a full OFC ticket, two nights’ accommodation and invitations to the Chair’s Reception and Christ Church Dinner, ensuring they have every opportunity to connect with delegates throughout the three days.

Tickets for the 2026 conference are on sale now. To view the full programme and to book your place, click here