EU Organic Awards 2025: Are you the next winner?

The 4^th edition of the EU Organic Awards is now open for applications from 11 February to 27 April 2025. These awards celebrate leaders in the organic value chain who develop inspiring projects that enhance organic food production and consumption. This year’s winners will be celebrated at the Awards Ceremony on the EU Organic Day, 23 September in Brussels.

The EU Organic Awards are jointly organised by the European Commission, the European Economic and Social Committee, the European Committee of the Regions, COPA-COGECA and IFOAM Organics Europe, with the participation of the European Parliament and the Council in the evaluation.

Seven awards will be presented across six categories:

• Best organic farmer (female and male)
• Best organic region/bio-district
• Best organic city
• Best organic food processing SME
• Best organic food retailer
• Best organic restaurant/food service

Who can apply?

Any EU actor or institution with a noteworthy project that contributes to greater affordability and accessibility of organic products in the EU can apply. This includes not only organic farmers, regions or bio-districts, or unique businesses like organic shops or restaurants, but also cities offering for instance, organic meals to local school pupils, or actively promoting organic production.

How to apply

Applications are welcome in all official EU languages via an online form available until 27 April 2025. Eligible applications will be reviewed by the EU Organic Awards jury against the criteria of excellence, innovation, sustainability and potential to replicate the project elsewhere in the EU. Winning projects will play a key role in raising public awareness about organic production within the EU.

Background

Organic farming is vital for protecting our environment, climate, biodiversity, and animal welfare. By delivering high-quality food with a minimal environmental footprint, organic farming is crucial for developing sustainable food systems across the EU.

In 2021, the European Commission adopted an action plan to increase the demand for and supply of organic products, and to enhance the sustainability of organic production. Member States were encouraged to set ambitious targets for organic farming within their CAP Strategic Plans and national organic action plans. Over the past years, and more particularly since 2023, the Common Agricultural Policy has enhanced financial support for converting to and remaining in organic farming. In September 2023, the European Commission published a report on the implementation of the action plan underlining the strong progress achieved so far by the sector.

Submit your project by 27 April 2025 at the latest and be a part of the future of organic farming!

Mr Christophe Hansen, EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, said:

Organic farming plays a crucial role in shaping a more sustainable and resilient food system in the EU. The EU Organic Awards highlight the dedication and innovation of those who are driving this transformation. I encourage all those contributing to the success of the organic sector to apply, share their achievements, and help shape the future of organic farming in the EU.

Mr Oliver Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, said:

With the launch of the fourth edition of the Organic Awards, we are only five years away from 2030, when the target of 25% of EU agricultural land under organic farming should be reached. These awards are an important part of raising awareness and inspiring change, and we must continue to stimulate the production and consumption of organic products. The EESC is proud to be a partner in these awards, where true champions of the organic food chain, including young entrepreneurs, are praised for their innovation and sustainable practices!

Ms Kirstine Bille, Member of the European Committee of the Regions, said:

Committing to organic means investing in the future of our territories. By applying for the European Organic Awards, your city or region affirms its leadership for sustainable agriculture, healthy food and a resilient local economy.

Mr Søren Søndergaard, 2nd Vice-president of COPA, said:

As European farmers, we are excited to take part in the fourth edition of the EU Organic Awards, honouring excellence in this sector. Copa-Cogeca remains committed to supporting these awards, providing a valuable opportunity to showcase farmers' achievements and spread best practices across Europe.

Mr Jan Plagge, President of IFOAM Organics Europe, said:

It is a privilege to launch the fourth edition of the EU Organic Awards, an initiative that continues to highlight the excellence and commitment of organic actors across Europe. These awards not only recognise inspiring organic initiatives but also demonstrate the sector’s significant contribution to a more sustainable and competitive agri-food system. Organic farming creates socio-economic opportunities, supports rural development, and offers a path toward reconciling environmental and economic sustainability – key themes underscored in the recent Strategic Dialogue on the Future of EU Agriculture. By showcasing best practices, we reinforce the role of organic in shaping a resilient food system that benefits farmers, businesses, and society as a whole.