A scholarship recipient has shared the impact of the funding, while encouraging others to apply for the latest grant opportunity.
Applications for the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship are open to students studying an agriculture-related degree or STEM degree, in their last two years of study.
The scholarship, in partnership with industry sponsors, provides an annual $10,000 bursary over two years and professional development opportunities for eligible university students.
It also offers students annual industry work placements, access to industry leaders, professional development assistance and opportunities to network and gain knowledge at a range of industry events.
Students studying degrees including agricultural science, rural science, agribusiness and resource management are eligible to apply.
AgriFutures Horizon scholar Emma Moss, is currently studying a Bachelor of Sustainable Agriculture at University of Queensland and has been on the program for two years.
"The Horizon Scholarship program has given me the confidence and has given me a way to channel my passion for agriculture into things that will make a genuine difference," she said.
"I have had so many amazing experiences over the last two years, from speaking at evokeAG 2019 as a Future Young Leader, being involved at EKKA through my sponsor, Meat and Livestock Australia, and being invited to present at schools - the confidence I have gained through the program has really helped me embrace these opportunities and put myself out there more."
The Horizon Scholarship program assisted Ms Moss with work placements across the Northern Territory.
"Most of my work placements have been in areas that are quite expensive to get to, so I probably wouldn't have been able to complete them without the assistance that the Horizon Scholarship program provides," she said.
"I'm so grateful for the opportunities I have been exposed to, and for the amazing people I've met who have shown me different ways to think about agriculture.
"Through the Horizon Scholarship program I have learnt how important it is to have a strong network of industry contacts.
"Not only have I been able to build my professional network through my work placements, but I've developed lasting relationships with the other scholars on the program.
"It has been amazing to meet people my age who share my passion for agriculture."
AgriFutures Australia managing director John Harvey said the company recognises a broad range of skills which contribute to all areas of rural industries, and are looking to attract those skilled individuals into careers in agriculture.
"As an organisation dedicated to the long-term prosperity of our rural industries, we are committed to supporting the next generation of leaders within the Australian agricultural landscape," he said.
"The Horizon Scholarship program provides networking and professional development opportunities, along with valuable industry placements, which allows our scholars to begin their careers in agriculture with direction and readiness."
Students must be entering their last two years of university to be eligible for the AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship.
All applicants must have commenced their tertiary studies no longer than two years after leaving high school.
Scholarship recipients will be selected on the basis of their commitment to a career in agriculture, as well as their leadership potential and tertiary academic record to date.
Applications close on Friday, November 22.
For more information and to apply visit www.agrifutures.com.au/horizon
