A hat-trick of young farmers schemes was launched at the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) inaugural rural affairs conference last weekend.
First up, red meat levy body Quality Meat Scotland, in association with accountancy firm Cambell Dallas, launched the Bright Sparks competition.
The competition, which is open to anyone under the age of 30, offers a young farmer the chance to £1,000 and receive free business advice to develop an idea that will benefit a Scottish beef, sheep or pig farm business.
The winning entry must demonstrate how the idea will improve the efficiency and profitability of the business.
To enter the competition, which has a deadline of March 27, 2015, young farmers must submit 200 words or a short video clip outlining their idea.
Next up, a series of free workshops will be offered to SAYFC members to learn about cattle condition and movement.
The Cow Signals workshops, led by Dr Donald Lawson or Premier Nutrition, will last for three hours each and provide advice on how to improve the comfort and environment for cattle. Sessions can be booked through SAYFC.
Lastly, the young farmers body launched the SAYFC Leadership Programme, which will kick off next year.
The five day programme will be delivered over a four month period in three sessions, with two days back to back in October and December and one day in January 2016.
It will focus on looking at what leadership is and business issues such as tenancies, bank loan applications and business plans.
SAYFC said ten places are open to members. Applications must be made online at www.sayfc.org