IAA Poultry & Aquaculture Innovation Scholarship

Technological innovation in the poultry and aquaculture sectors faces challenges. Between the underlying biological complexities and high capital costs, it is difficult to discover and spread transformative ideas. But technology has the potential to radically reshape these fields and unlock new efficiencies; it just requires visionaries who can rise to the challenge and push beyond.

The IAA Poultry & Aquaculture Innovation Scholarship (IPAIS) was established to recognize and support the next generation of leaders who will drive technological progress in poultry and aquaculture. We seek to empower students from agricultural backgrounds who believe that animal agriculture can thrive by aligning economic incentives with animal welfare and consumer values.

This scholarship awards up to three undergraduate students with $4,000 and career advancement opportunities within the poultry and aquaculture sectors. Applicants should be pursuing a career in either the poultry or aquaculture sector and demonstrate a desire to meaningfully contribute to the future of these industries through technology and innovation.

Applications open August 2025

Application Details

Eligibility

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Graduating high school senior or a full-time undergraduate student enrolled at a U.S.-based two- or four-year accredited institution for the 2026–2027 academic year

  • Pursuing a degree in Animal Science, Agricultural or Biosystems Engineering, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, or a related field focused on advancing animal agriculture through innovation

  • Planning to work in the poultry or aquaculture industries after graduating

  • GPA of 3.0 or higher

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated on the strength of demonstrated interest in animal agtech and alignment with Innovate Animal Ag’s mission areas. We are especially interested in students who:

  • Exhibit a strong interest in the poultry or aquaculture sectors

  • Have hands-on experience working with livestock and/or animal agriculture technologies

  • Show a commitment to advancing the care and wellbeing of livestock animals in production settings

Required Materials

Applicants must submit the following materials to be considered:

  • One letter of recommendation from a current or former instructor or an industry professional. Letters should be sent directly to scholarship@innovateanimalag.org and must be received no later than December 15. Recommenders should include the applicant’s full name in the letter.

  • Copy of the applicant’s most recent academic transcript

  • Short answer responses outlining the applicant’s interest in and experience with animal agriculture

  • Select candidates will be asked to interview with IAA before finalizing award decisions