2026 Young Agri-Food Leaders Cohort

About the Program

The Farm Foundation Young Agri-Food Leader Program engages emerging leaders in food and agribusiness, ages 25–40, in a fully-funded yearlong series of interactive learning and networking experiences designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the food and agriculture value chain.

Participants engage in virtual learning sessions, in-person events, and exclusive networking opportunities, and are paired with a senior agri-food mentor to support career growth and leadership development. The program also provides participants with opportunities to engage in Farm Foundation programming, including attendance at one Farm Foundation Round Table meeting and participation in Farm Foundation Forums and other events.

A hallmark of the program is its intentional inclusion of leaders from across the entire agriculture and food value chain—from farmers and producers to researchers, processors, supply chain and logistics professionals, technology innovators, and more—creating a dynamic learning environment and fostering cross-sector understanding.

Who Should Apply

– U.S. citizens, ages 25–40

– Currently employed in the agri-food industry

– Demonstrate strong leadership potential

– Represent diverse sectors of the agriculture and food value chain

Nominations

Participants may be nominated by supervisors, colleagues, or professional references, and self-nominations are also accepted. Letters of recommendation are required only if you are self-nominating.

What Young Agri-Food Leaders Will Do?

– Participate in monthly virtual cohort meetings

– Attend the Farm Foundation Round Table in St. Louis, MO | June 15–18, 2026

– Attend the Farm Foundation Next Gen Summit in Libertyville, IL | September 2026

– Engage in Farm Foundation virtual Forums

– Build a strong, lasting peer and professional network

– Connect with a senior agri-food mentor for guidance and career development

What is Farm Foundation Round Table?

The Round Table is an invitational gathering of about 150 C-suite food and agriculture leaders who meet to discuss emerging issues in agribusiness, the food system, and rural communities.

Program Alumni