13.02.2026
From 24–27 March 2026, the Annual Forum and Innovation Academy will take place at the Peroto Literary Club in the National Palace of Culture (NDK), offering a unique opportunity for aspiring agri-entrepreneurs to present their ideas and compete for funding to bring them to life. Participation is free of charge, and the application deadline is 17 March 2026.
During the forum and academy, young entrepreneurs and teams will have the chance to receive training, individual mentoring, and prepare their business ideas for presentation to an expert jury. The best idea will be awarded a €2,500 prize, along with opportunities to expand networks, showcase their project to potential investors, partners, and media.
All participants who complete the training will receive a certificate of participation, recognizing the skills and knowledge gained in innovation and entrepreneurship within the agricultural sector.
Annual Forum & Innovation Academy in Agricultural Entrepreneurship
The forum is organized by the Association for the Promotion of Agricultural Cooperation between China and the Central and Eastern European Countries (APACCCEEC) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Food, in partnership with the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”.
This initiative builds on the success of four previous regional editions (Varna, Burgas, Plovdiv, and Vratsa), whose winners have successfully implemented their business ideas. This year’s forum aims to break stereotypes, demonstrating that agriculture is a fertile ground for high-tech solutions with enormous potential for young people in Bulgaria and Central and Eastern Europe.
This is also the fourth annual edition of the Innovation Academy in Agribusiness, part of the Master’s program “Innovation and Digital Transformation of Agribusiness” at the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski.”
The program includes masterclasses and workshops led by top experts from business, academia, administration, and the agri-sector, with a focus on the use of AI, mobile applications, and precision agriculture.
“Our goal is to build a vibrant ecosystem of progressive individuals who do not just follow trends but create solutions for modern and intelligent agriculture”, the organizers say.
Participation in the Academy is completely free, and applicants must submit a project idea in agriculture or related sub-sectors.
Application deadline: 17 March 2026
General Rules and Regulations – BG Academy
For participation, applicants should complete one of the following forms:
Application form for individuals
Application form for organizations
For questions or further information: +359 2 843 1040, Email: academy@china2ceec.org