Forums

Farm Foundation Forum: Opportunities for US Agriculture in the Bio-Based Materials and Energy Economy

Join us on Thursday, May 7, 2026 for our next Farm Foundation Forum:
Opportunities for US Agriculture in the Bio-Based Materials and Energy Economy

Register for the online Forum here

Want to join us in person?

In addition to attending the Forum virtually, you also have the option to join us in Libertyville, Illinois for a special Lunch & Learn experience at the Farm Foundation Innovation and Education Campus.

In-person attendees will watch the live Forum together, then stay for lunch, discussion, and a guided campus tour, extending the experience through 12:30 p.m. CT.

Register for in person lunch and learn here

About the Forum

Plant-derived innovation is rapidly expanding beyond traditional agricultural markets, powering a new generation of industrial materials, bio-based fuels, and advanced manufacturing inputs. As technologies evolve and sustainability pressures intensify, these emerging pathways are reshaping how agricultural outputs are produced, processed, and utilized across the bioeconomy.

This Farm Foundation Forum will explore the scientific and technological breakthroughs driving this shift, the policy and market conditions required to scale adoption, and the infrastructure and investment needed to support growth. The session will highlight how plant-based industrial applications can strengthen American agriculture, diversify revenue streams, and unlock new value across energy, materials, and manufacturing systems.

Panelists include:

Beth Conerty
Regional Innovation Officer, iFAB
Associate Director, Business Development, IBRL, University of Illinois

Sarah Glaven
Visiting Fellow, Andlinger Center for Energy and the Environment, Princeton University
Founder & Principal, Marathon Bio

James Glueck
Executive Director, Plant Based Products Council
Senior Vice President, Advanced Bioproducts, Corn Refiners Association

Greg Jaffe
President, Jaffe Policy Consulting
Former Senior Advisor, USDA