By Andi Anderson
The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) invites young farmer entrepreneurs to apply for the prestigious Grow Your Future Award. With a grand prize of $10,000, this award aims to recognize and support innovative ag-related businesses run by Farm Bureau members aged 18-35.
Amanda Van Steenwyk, IFBF’s farm business development manager, highlights the program's goal: “Our young farmer committee understands the obstacles to farming and the need to diversify. This award recognizes creative new businesses and helps young farmers grow their ventures.” The award targets unique business ventures in niche production, agritourism, and specialty services.
Interested candidates can apply at www.iowafarmbureau.com/growyourfuture by September 1. A panel will select up to six finalists for an online public vote, which will narrow it down to three. These top three finalists will compete in a live pitch-off during the Iowa Farm Bureau Young Farmer Conference on January 17, 2025, with winners announced the following day.
Prizes include:
- First Place: $10,000
- Second Place: $5,000
- Third Place: $2,500
Last year’s winner grew over 40 different crops and raised meat birds, using her winnings to expand her direct-to-consumer marketing.
Brent Johnson, Iowa Farm Bureau President, emphasized the organization's commitment to rural entrepreneurship. “Our Renew Rural Iowa program has mentored nearly 4,000 rural entrepreneurs, creating over $150 million in economic impact. The Grow Your Future Award highlights innovation and supports young farmers exploring new opportunities, strengthening Iowa agriculture and rural communities.”
Apply now to showcase your agricultural innovation and stand a chance to win the Grow Your Future Award!
Photo Credit: grow-your-future-award
Categories: Iowa, Business, Education