More than 80 people have taken part in the Poultry Industry Programme since it was launched in 2012
Applications have opened for the 2026/27 NFU Poultry Industry Programme, offering the next generation of poultry professionals training, supply chain access and industry networking.
Run by the NFU in partnership with feed company ForFarmers, the programme combines one and two-day visits and events covering leadership, media training, policy, lobbying and the poultry supply chain.
The Poultry Industry Programme (PIP) has been running since 2012 and is now entering its seventh edition.
More than 80 people have taken part so far, with several former participants going on to hold influential roles within the industry.
A number of alumni now sit on the NFU national Poultry Board, including its chair, Will Raw.
The NFU said the programme is designed to give younger poultry professionals skills and knowledge they can use within their own businesses while helping them become stronger advocates for the wider sector.
Participants gain insight into different areas of British poultry meat and egg production and have opportunities to meet others working across the industry.
The programme also provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the NFU works with members and policymakers to represent the poultry sector.
Leadership development, professional networking and sharing experiences and best practice are also central to the programme.
Feedback from the most recent intake was positive, with 100% of participants surveyed saying they would recommend the programme and found the content useful.
Ryan Dakin, a free-range egg producer and NFU Poultry Board member, said taking part had helped him understand the wider industry after moving his family farm into poultry production.
“I would urge anyone to apply for the PIP – I’ve never looked back!” he said.
“As a first-time poultry farmer, taking my family farm in a new direction, it opened my eyes to the wider industry and gave me some amazing networking opportunities to learn from others in the sector and to make contacts with like-minded people.”
The NFU said the programme aims to help develop future poultry industry leaders by combining practical sector knowledge with skills that can be applied throughout participants’ careers.
Applications are now open for the 2026/27 programme, with further details available through the NFU.