BugBiome

Alicia is the CEO and co-founder of BugBiome, a company focused on discovering biopesticides from the crop microbiome. She has assembled a scientific team to capture and screen microbes from crops for new crop protectants, specifically targeting aphids in oilseed rape and sugar beet. With support from NIAB they will progress from discovery to field trials in the next year. Alicia pivoted from human pest solutions to agriculture, raising over £1,000,000 in funding through a combination of private equity and grants. BugBiome actively engages with farmers and agronomists on the role of biopesticides in integrated crop management that is more sustainable for people and the planet.

Little Miss Social Media

Cecile owns a social media marketing company, Little Miss Social Media, which she launched in 2023 when she was 19 years old. With a growing following across social media platforms, Cecile supports up to 14 clients across various industries, including agriculture and food services. She has also boosted her club’s social media presence, helping attract new members. With plans to one day offer apprenticeships to the rural community, Cecile is passionate about supporting local businesses and promoting the community where she lives.

The Dirty Dog Kendal

Katie owns The Dirty Dog, a dog grooming business in Kendal. After working at a local auction mart, she pursued her dream of dog grooming, starting with just the basics in her spare room. Building her client base from scratch while working long hours, she has successfully transitioned to full-time grooming. Katie donates vouchers to local charity raffles and sponsors YFC events, always seeking innovative ways to boost income, like selling treats and doggie perfume. She now boasts five-star reviews and requires additional support due to the success of the business.

The British Food Box

Hannah co-founded the British Food Box eight years ago, a dairy wholesale and cheese events business generating £1.35 million annually. They employ six full-time staff and around 25 part-time event staff. The wholesale division sources dairy from small producers, supplying over 140 retailers and the food service sector across six counties. The business sells artisan cheeses at more than 250 food festivals and county shows yearly. During the pandemic, Hannah adapted the business to offer home deliveries, reaching over 1,000 households. Hannah is committed to supporting smaller producers and expanding the events business.

Trink Dairy

Maddy has been instrumental in helping her family’s dairy farm diversify by introducing a 24-hour milk and milkshake vending machine. Trink Dairy has gained popularity among locals, school groups, and tourists – even getting a surprise visit from Dua Lipa and Michael Barrymore! Before investing in the kit, Maddy created a DIY milkshake bar to conduct her own market research and has since brought a vending machine trailer and more recently introduced Trink Natural Yoghurt. Through hosting YFC visits and educating local schools about dairy production, she has fostered community engagement, promoting sustainability by encouraging the reuse of glass bottles and showcasing career opportunities in agriculture.