German Rural Women's Association honors innovative female founders from rural regions
The German Rural Women's Association (dlv) is calling on women from rural regions to apply for the "Entrepreneur of the Year" competition in 2026. We are looking for female entrepreneurs who are successful with innovative ideas - whether in services, crafts, agriculture or other sectors. Applications are open until January 23, 2026.
"With this award, we are making visible how much economic strength, courage and creative power women develop in our rural areas," emphasizes dlv President Petra Bentkämper. "Every female entrepreneur who applies shows that rural regions are the places to live and work in the future."
Three categories are awarded: a female entrepreneur from agriculture, one from rural areas and a young female entrepreneur. In doing so, the dlv is highlighting the diversity of entrepreneurial achievements – a connection to agriculture is not a prerequisite. The winners receive prize money of 400.00 euros and a voucher for renowned "Women Entrepreneur Talks". Above all, however, the award increases public awareness of the companies and highlights successful concepts.
Nikola Steinbock, patron of the competition and spokeswoman for the Board of Managing Directors of Landwirtschaftliche Rentenbank, is convinced: "The competition makes courageous female entrepreneurs visible who are driving the agricultural and food industry forward with their ideas and their power. That's why I'm looking forward to setting new impulses together with these strong women at the Deutscher LandFrauentag 2026!"
The winners will be selected by an expert and independent jury.
The award ceremony will take place on June 30, 2026 at the Deutscher LandFrauentag in Essen.
Further information and application
Applications are possible until January 23, 2026.
All information and the application documents can be found at www.landfrauen.info/aktuelles/pressemeldungen/detail/jetzt-bewerben-unternehmerin-des-jahres-2026-gesucht