Launched in 2013 by BIGGA and its Premium Partner Jacobsen, the Future Turf Managers Initiative provides opportunities for deputy and assistant greenkeepers to develop the skills required to become a successful manager in an ever-changing industry.
Applications are now open for the Future Turf Managers Initiative (FTMI) 2026, which takes place:
Tuesday 22 - Wednesday 23 September 2026 at Ransomes Jacobsen, Ipswich (in-person)
October - December - online education sessions, dates to be confirmed
Sunday 24 - Wednesday 27 January 2027 - Harrogate Convention Centre (in-person)
Please be aware:
/ To be eligible for the Future Turf Managers Initiative 2026 you will have at least 3 years' experience working full-time as a greenkeeper at time of application
/ You must have completed and passed your level 2 qualification before applying
/ Head greenkeepers and course managers are not eligible to apply
/ You will require a nominator - someone to support your application. This could be your manager, supervisor, BIGGA membership services manager or club manager
/ International BIGGA members can apply, but will have to meet any travel costs associated with attending
/ You must be able to attend the specified in-person dates
/ You will be expected to contribute towards your travel expenses to the in-person training
For your chance to be one of 15 candidates selected for FTMI 2026, follow the steps outlined below:
1. Complete and submit this application form (it should take approximately 15-20 minutes). Pay close attention to the word count allowance for each answer as this will be considered as part of the judging criteria.
2. Your nominator will then be sent an email with a weblink to complete the nomination form. Please ensure the email address you provide is correct.
3. Your application will be complete when both your application form and the nomination form have been received.
The deadline for your application to be completed is Sunday 31 May 2026 at 8pm
Your application will be reviewed by a panel of representatives from BIGGA and Jacobsen and you will be informed by the end of July if you have been successful.
Good luck!
