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Nov. 18, 2025 Source: Farm Progress news release Decatur, IL -- The 2025 Farm Progress Show (FPS), held Aug. 26-28, 2025, in Decatur, Illinois, showcased groundbreaking advancements in agriculture while fostering connections within the farming community. With over 160,000 attendees, the event showcased initiatives focused on improving resource efficiency, supporting workforce development, and enhancing accessibility for farmers and industry professionals. New Demonstrations The show introduced several new features, including a cover crop demonstration plot funded by a sustainability grant from Farm Progress' parent company, Informa, and implemented in partnership with Green Cover. Daily crop walks, led by Green Cover's agronomic experts, provided farmers with hands-on insights into soil health, pollinator benefits and strategies for integrating cover crops into their operations. Another standout addition was the FPS Drone Zone, where four companies demonstrated agriculture unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed to improve precision and reduce costs for aerial applications. "We're proud to offer farmers the chance to see sustainable practices in action and learn how they can apply these strategies to their own farms," said Matt Jungmann, senior events director for Farm Progress. "The cover crop plot and Drone Zone are just two examples of how we're helping producers navigate the challenges of modern agriculture." Career Opportunities The event also hosted the inaugural FPS Career Fair, connecting over 200 students from land-grant universities and community colleges with career opportunities in agriculture. A partnership with Richland Community College's EnRich program brought 30 students facing employment barriers, including minority populations and formerly incarcerated individuals, to the fair, furthering efforts to make agricultural careers accessible to all. Women in the Field Another highlight was the Women in the Field program, sponsored by PepsiCo, which featured keynote speakers Natalie Kovarik and Tara Vander Dussen of the Discover Ag podcast. Their session, "Agriculture in the Age of Virality," drew crowds and was followed by a panel discussion with two female Midwestern farmers who raise grain for PepsiCo products. A networking reception with complimentary drinks and snacks offered attendees meaningful opportunities to connect. Community Partnerships The Farm Progress Show also emphasized community engagement and environmental stewardship. Initiatives included the use of biodiesel for all field demo equipment, electric GEM cars for onsite transportation, and propane-powered air conditioning in key facilities. Additionally, the event partnered with Riggs Beer Company to offer a craft brew made from locally grown grains, highlighting the farm-to-brewery movement. "Our partnerships and programs reflect our commitment to supporting farmers and advancing the agricultural industry," said Jungmann. "From workforce development to innovative demonstrations, we're creating opportunities for growth and collaboration." The show's efforts extended to supporting the local community, with $70,575 provided to 12 nonprofit organizations through its volunteer program. The Health and Safety Tent, delivered in partnership with the University of Illinois' AgrAbility chapter, offered cancer screenings, blood pressure checks, mental health consultations and other vital services, addressing critical needs in rural areas. Looking Ahead The 2026 Farm Progress Show returns Sept. 1-3, 2026, to Boone, Iowa, continuing its mission to connect farmers with innovative solutions and foster industry collaboration. To learn more about exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities for 2026, visit www.FarmProgressShow.com. About the Farm Progress Show The Farm Progress Show, one of the largest outdoor agricultural events in the United States, takes place annually in Decatur, Illinois, and Boone, Iowa, on alternating years. This industry-leading exhibition attracts a wide audience of farmers and professionals from across the world. With hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest farming innovations, equipment and technology, the three-day event features dynamic field demonstrations and comprehensive educational opportunities for the global agricultural community. For more information, visit www.FarmProgressShow.com. About Farm Progress As part of Informa Markets, Farm Progress is the largest, most diversified agriculture information business in North America. Through a robust network of live events, digital products, data, marketing services, broadcasting and local and national publications, Farm Progress enables the nation's most economically significant farmers, growers and ranchers to connect and do business. It serves 80% of the 2 million farms and ranches in the U.S., and an estimated 85% of the nation's annual agricultural gross domestic product. Visit our website at www.FarmProgress.com. Tweet |
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