The Iowa Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer Conference will take place Jan. 17-18 at the Community Choice Convention Center in Des Moines, offering opportunities to network and gain the latest insights into the farming industry geared specifically toward young farmers. 

The popular conference, attracting hundreds of farmers each year, begins with six different industry tours followed by a keynote from Jack Uldrich, a global futurist, speaker and author. Uldrich argues creativity and action are more powerful than knowledge alone, and “unlearning” can allow people to be more flexible during this era of unparalleled change. Following will be a comedy hour, yard games and door prizes. 

On Jan. 18, more than 20 educational sessions will provide attendees the chance to learn from other farmers involved in direct-to-consumer markets and value-added agriculture; gain understanding of current ag markets and policy impacts on the farm; and learn new skills in creating graphics or canning.

“It’s critical we encourage and nurture young farmers in Iowa to ensure the next generation has the tools to navigate challenges in farming and grow successfully,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson. “The Iowa Farm Bureau Young Farmer conference is a great place to network, learn the latest ways to grow and enhance your farm and have fun while doing it. I started in our Young Farmer program and still maintain those friendships today.”

The three Grow Your Future Award finalists will pitch their ag-related businesses to a 500-person audience for a chance to win $10,000. Attendees can also compete in the Farm Bureau Discussion Meet, a cooperative-style dialogue on topics related to challenges impacting family farms. The top 10 semi-finalists will advance to the 2025 Iowa Farm Bureau annual meeting where one person will be selected to represent Iowa at the American Farm Bureau Convention Discussion Meet. 

The conference will culminate with motivational speaker Dr. Rick Rigsby, who wants his audiences to rediscover what is truly important and meaningful in life. Evening entertainment will be provided by Montezuma, Iowa-based country singer Cody Hicks.  

Register by Jan. 3 for this members-only event by contacting your local county Farm Bureau. To view the conference agenda or become an Iowa Farm Bureau member, visit IowaFarmBureau.com/YFC.