The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) is hosting its fourth annual Acres of Opportunity conference Feb. 15 at the Bien VenU Event Center in Cedar Falls. 

The event offers farmers a chance to learn from peers who have diversified their operations with niche market ventures that require less land or complement existing family farms. 

Attendees will gain insights from successful farmers and industry experts about innovative business models and creating income opportunities. The conference will also feature sessions on essential business topics such as loan programs, farm insurance, legal issues, e-commerce and grant opportunities. 

“One of the most valuable things this conference provides is that inspiration to see what is possible and the resources available to entrepreneurial farmers,” says Amanda Van Steenwyk, Iowa Farm Bureau’s farm business development manager. “What seems unattainable today can move toward being less frightening when you can hear from others who have done it, what obstacles they faced and the success they’ve had by taking a leap.” 

The conference will also feature two inspiring keynote speakers.

Natalie Kovarik, a fourth-generation cattle rancher turned social entrepreneur, will share her insights into the power of boldness in business. Kovarik is co-founder of a top-ranked food podcast, Discover Ag, and has created an online community of more than 145,000 followers with a nationwide reach. The second keynote, Jerry Carroll, a farmer, TV co-host and national comedian, will entertain with his humorous stories about farm life and family.  

Registration is free for Farm Bureau members. If you aren’t a Farm Bureau member and would like to attend the conference, contact your local county Farm Bureau or become a member and join online at www.iowafarmbureau.com/join for $60 or less. To view a full agenda and register, visit www.iowafarmbureau.com/acres. Registrations are due by Feb. 3 to guarantee a spot.