We know that reaching the part of the form that asks for an “explanatory video” can be a bit nerve-wracking. We often think that participating in an innovation contest requires professional cameras, a production crew, or cinematic editing skills.
We want to take that weight off your shoulders today!
For the Nexus Rural Award 2026, the jury will not evaluate the image quality or the special effects of your video. What we really want is to get to know you, hear your voice, and understand how your initiative is transforming agriculture in your community. Your smartphone is the only tool you need.
Here we explain how to record your Nexus Rural Award application video quickly, simply, and stress-free.
What do I talk about in the video? (Your story in 3 steps)
Don’t worry about the exact time. Although the maximum limit is 180 seconds (3 minutes), your video can be shorter. The most important thing is to be yourself and tell us about your project clearly and genuinely.
So you don’t draw a blank, we suggest this super simple structure:
- Step 1: The context. Introduce yourself quickly. Tell us who you are, where you live, and the real challenge or problem faced by family farmers in your area. Speak from your own experience!
- Step 2: Your solution in action. Tell us how you are using digital technology to solve that problem. It doesn’t matter if it’s a simple adaptation of an existing app or a brand new tool; explain how it works on a daily basis and how it helps people.
- Step 3: The future of your project. What do you hope to achieve moving forward? Tell us how you imagine your project will grow if you win the $3,500 USD in funding and the award’s mentoring.
Practical tips for recording with your phone (No complications!)
Don’t hold yourself back looking for technical equipment. Follow these quick recommendations before pressing the record button:
- Clean the lens: It seems like a minor detail, but wiping the lens of your phone camera with your shirt sleeve will make the video look much sharper.
- Total format freedom: Vertical or horizontal? Whatever makes you feel most comfortable! You have complete freedom to choose your screen orientation.
- Use your own hands (or a friend’s): You don’t need a tripod. You can record yourself in selfie mode or ask someone from your team or a friend to hold the phone for you. The message is what matters.
- Find a quiet place: Try to record at a time when there isn’t too much background noise and avoid very windy places, so we can hear your voice loud and clear.
- Light is your ally: It is always better for the sunlight (or light from a window) to illuminate your face. Avoid recording with the sun behind your back so you don’t look like a shadow.
How do I share my video on the form?
We have designed the process to be as friendly as possible with your internet connection. Once you have your video ready on your phone, you have two very simple options:
- Upload the file directly: You can attach the video file right there within our multilingual digital form.
- Share a link: If you prefer, you can upload your video to the platform that suits you best (like YouTube, Vimeo, or Google Drive) and simply paste the link into the form so we can go watch it.
Before starting your registration, we recommend visiting our Application Guide where you can learn about the form in detail and prepare all your data. Also, to make sure your proposal is flawless, check out our article on the 5 mistakes you must avoid when applying for the Nexus Rural Award 2026.
The clock is ticking! It’s your time to shine
Don’t let recording a simple video take away your opportunity to boost your technological project, access direct funding, and receive specialized training in Artificial Intelligence and Business.
Agriculture in Latin America and the Caribbean needs proactive young people like you. Remember that the call for applications permanently closes on July 31, 2026.
Got your phone handy? Go ahead and record today, and complete your application here.
The Nexus Rural Award 2026 is an initiative organized by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and PROCASUR, aiming to catalyze the inclusive digital transformation of family farming.
