As a young farmer today, tackling challenges—from securing financing and navigating regulations to diversifying profitability and managing family schedules—can be overwhelming. Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) invites all young farmer members between 18 and 35 years old to register for the IFBF Young Farmer Conference, Feb. 2-3, 2024, at the Prairie Meadows Events & Conference Center in Altoona, to gain actionable insights and networking opportunities to learn how to better address those challenges. 

The conference begins with ag industry tours followed by a keynote from Elaine Froese on how to “Discuss the Undiscussabull.” Froese, dubbed “Canada’s Farm Whisperer,” is passionate about helping family farms navigate conflict to secure a profitable farm legacy. She will advise attendees on how to tackle tough conversations and come out on the other side to improve family farm relationships. 

On Feb. 3, educational sessions will cover sustainability, farm transition, direct-to-consumer markets, national policy updates, working with different farm personalities and more. The three Grow Your Future Award finalists will also pitch their ag-related businesses to a 500-person audience for a chance to win $7,500. 

Attendees can participate in the Farm Bureau Discussion Meet, a competition focused on cooperative dialogue related to challenges impacting farming and rural America. Winners of the Farm Bureau Discussion Meet at the conference will advance to compete at the 2024 Iowa Farm Bureau annual meeting where one finalist will be selected to represent Iowa at the American Farm Bureau Convention Discussion Meet. 

The conference will culminate with Tim Gabrielson, an entertainer who combines magic with comedy, and a networking event hosted by the Farm4Profit Podcast crew. 

Register by Jan. 19 for this members-only event by contacting your local county Farm Bureau. Click here to view the conference agenda.