Iowa’s Women in Ag Leadership Conference: Empowering Agricultural Entrepreneurs and Farm Innovation
“Women-led farms in the U.S. increased by 27% between 2012 and 2017, highlighting the growing importance of female agricultural leadership.”
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming Women in Ag Leadership Conference in Iowa, a groundbreaking event that promises to empower and inspire agricultural entrepreneurs and innovators across the state and beyond. This two-day conference, hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, is set to become a cornerstone for women in agriculture leadership, offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and celebrating the invaluable contributions of women to the agricultural sector.
Breaking Ground, Seeding Success: The Conference Theme
The theme of this year’s conference, “Breaking Ground, Seeding Success,” encapsulates the spirit of innovation and progress that defines modern agriculture. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of farming and agribusiness, it’s crucial to equip ourselves with the latest knowledge, skills, and connections to thrive in this dynamic industry.
The conference will take place at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames, Iowa, on December 4-5, 2023. This central location provides easy access for attendees from across the state and beyond, ensuring a diverse and vibrant gathering of agricultural minds.
A Comprehensive Program for Agricultural Excellence
Our carefully curated program addresses the most pressing issues and opportunities in modern agriculture. Attendees can expect to gain insights into:
- Farm financial management
- Sustainable farming practices
- Agricultural innovation and technology
- Effective board practices
- Strategic relationships in agribusiness
- Agricultural entrepreneurship
These topics are not just buzzwords; they represent the core competencies required for success in today’s agricultural landscape. By focusing on these areas, we aim to equip attendees with the tools and knowledge needed to drive their farms and agribusinesses forward.
Empowering Women in Agriculture
In Iowa, women play a crucial role in agriculture, with two-thirds working full or part-time in off-farm careers. This conference is designed to celebrate their contributions and provide a platform for further growth and leadership development. Madeline Schultz, the program manager for Women in Ag, emphasizes the importance of connecting with and learning from influential women in farming and agribusiness.
Keynote Speakers and Expert Panels
We are honored to host a lineup of distinguished speakers who will share their expertise and experiences:
- Karen Rawson – New deputy state executive director at the Farm Service Agency
- Angie Treptow – Senior vice president at Farm Credit Services of America
- Heather Malenshek – CMO of Land O’ Lakes Inc.
- Kiley Fleming – Executive director at Iowa Mediation Services
These leaders will discuss critical topics such as leadership in financial careers, support for agriculture during challenging times, and innovative practices within American agriculture.
Entrepreneurial Insights and Workshops
A highlight of the conference will be breakout sessions featuring three inspiring entrepreneurs:
- Laura Cunningham of Skyview Farms
- Natalie Paino of Hightail Delivery
- Meredith Nunnikhoven of Barnswallow Compostable Vases and Flowers
These successful women will share their entrepreneurial journeys, including the challenges they overcame and their visions for the future. Their stories will provide valuable insights for aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs and those looking to innovate within existing operations.
Effective Board Practices Workshop
Shelly Kruse, executive director of strategic relationships at Growmark, will lead an impactful workshop on effective board practices. Drawing from her extensive experience serving on numerous boards, Kruse will guide attendees through an eight-step cycle for building and sustaining effective boards. This workshop is essential for those looking to enhance their leadership skills and make a significant impact in agricultural organizations.
The Role of Technology in Modern Agriculture
“Precision agriculture technologies can reduce input costs by up to 15% while increasing crop yields by 13%, driving farm innovation.”
As we delve into the future of agriculture, it’s crucial to discuss the role of technology in shaping farm practices and driving innovation. The conference will feature sessions on precision agriculture technology and its applications in modern farming. Attendees will learn about the latest advancements in satellite imaging, AI-driven crop management, and data analytics that are revolutionizing the way we approach agriculture.
For those interested in exploring cutting-edge agricultural technology, we recommend checking out Farmonaut’s innovative solutions. Their web app offers advanced farm management tools powered by satellite technology.
For mobile users, Farmonaut’s apps are available on both Android and iOS platforms:
Networking Opportunities and Career Development
One of the most valuable aspects of the Women in Ag Leadership Conference is the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals and industry leaders. The event will feature structured networking sessions, allowing attendees to forge new connections and strengthen existing relationships within the agricultural community.
Additionally, the conference will offer insights into agricultural career development, providing guidance for those looking to advance their careers or explore new opportunities within the sector. From established farm operators to recent graduates, there will be valuable information for every stage of your agricultural career.
Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
As the agricultural industry faces increasing pressure to adopt more sustainable farming practices, the conference will dedicate significant attention to this crucial topic. Attendees will learn about the latest sustainable farming techniques, including:
- Regenerative agriculture practices
- Water conservation strategies
- Soil health management
- Integrated pest management
These sessions will not only focus on environmental sustainability but also on how these practices can improve farm profitability and long-term viability.
Crop Management Strategies for Changing Times
A key component of the conference will be discussions on crop management strategies adapted to the challenges of climate change and market volatility. Experts will share insights on:
- Climate-resilient crop varieties
- Precision irrigation techniques
- Advanced pest and disease management
- Optimizing crop rotations for soil health and yield
These strategies are essential for maximizing productivity while minimizing environmental impact, a balance that’s becoming increasingly crucial in modern agriculture.
Farm Business Planning and Financial Management
Success in agriculture requires more than just agronomic knowledge; it demands strong business acumen. The conference will offer valuable sessions on farm business planning and farm financial management, covering topics such as:
- Creating comprehensive business plans
- Understanding and managing cash flow
- Strategies for accessing capital and financing
- Risk management and insurance options
These sessions will equip attendees with the tools needed to make sound financial decisions and ensure the long-term sustainability of their agricultural enterprises.
The Role of Data in Modern Farming
In today’s digital age, data plays a crucial role in agricultural decision-making. The conference will explore how farmers can leverage data to improve their operations, covering topics such as:
- Utilizing farm management software
- Interpreting satellite and drone imagery
- Implementing IoT devices for real-time monitoring
- Data-driven decision making in agriculture
For those interested in exploring data-driven farming solutions, Farmonaut offers a comprehensive API for integrating satellite and weather data into existing farm management systems. Developers can access the API Developer Docs for more information on implementing these powerful tools.
Conference Schedule Overview
| Time | Session | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 – 11:15 AM | Opening Keynote: Breaking Ground in Agriculture | Leadership |
| Day 1 – 1:00 PM | Workshop: Farm Financial Management Essentials | Farm Management |
| Day 1 – 3:00 PM | Panel: Sustainable Farming Practices for the Future | Sustainability |
| Day 1 – 5:00 PM | Networking Reception | Networking |
| Day 2 – 8:30 AM | Breakfast Session: Agricultural Innovation Showcase | Innovation |
| Day 2 – 10:00 AM | Workshop: Effective Board Practices in Agribusiness | Leadership |
| Day 2 – 1:00 PM | Panel: Strategic Relationships in Agribusiness | Networking |
| Day 2 – 3:00 PM | Closing Keynote: Seeding Success – The Future of Agricultural Entrepreneurship | Entrepreneurship |
Registration and Accessibility
We are committed to making this valuable event accessible to all interested participants. Early bird registration is available until November 22, offering a $20 discount off the regular fees:
- Adults: $140 (Early bird: $120)
- Students: $80 (Early bird: $60)
Additionally, scholarships are available to help further ease costs for those who may need financial assistance. We encourage all interested parties to take advantage of these opportunities to attend this transformative event.
Supporting the Future of Agriculture
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Ag Program, which organizes this conference, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Iowa. By providing research-based educational resources, the program fosters agricultural enterprises and supports the community of women in agriculture.
We’re grateful for the support of sponsors like Farm Credit Services of America, whose contributions help make this event possible and affordable for all participants.
Embracing Technology in Agriculture
As we look to the future of agriculture, it’s clear that technology will play an increasingly important role. Companies like Farmonaut are at the forefront of this technological revolution, offering innovative solutions that can help farmers optimize their operations and increase profitability.
Farmonaut’s satellite-based farm management solutions provide valuable tools for crop management strategies and precision agriculture technology. Their platform offers real-time crop health monitoring, AI-based advisory systems, and resource management tools that can significantly enhance farm productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can attend the Women in Ag Leadership Conference?
A: The conference is open to all women involved or interested in agriculture, including farmers, agribusiness professionals, students, and researchers.
Q: Are there accommodation options near the conference venue?
A: Yes, the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center offers accommodation options. Additionally, there are several hotels in Ames that cater to conference attendees.
Q: Will there be opportunities for one-on-one networking?
A: Absolutely! The conference schedule includes dedicated networking sessions and breaks designed to facilitate connections among attendees.
Q: Are meals included in the conference registration?
A: Yes, the registration fee includes meals for both days of the conference.
Q: How can I apply for a scholarship to attend the conference?
A: Information on scholarship applications can be found on the Women in Ag Program website. We encourage those needing financial assistance to apply early.
Conclusion: Seeding Success for the Future of Agriculture
The Women in Ag Leadership Conference represents a pivotal moment for agriculture in Iowa and beyond. By bringing together diverse perspectives, cutting-edge knowledge, and a spirit of innovation, we aim to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders.
We invite all women in agriculture to join us for this transformative event. Whether you’re a seasoned farm operator, an aspiring agripreneur, or a student looking to make your mark in the industry, this conference offers invaluable opportunities for growth, learning, and connection.
Together, we can break new ground and seed success for a thriving, sustainable agricultural future. Register today and be part of this exciting journey towards agricultural excellence!
For more information or to register, please visit the Women in Ag Program website. We look forward to seeing you in Ames this December!