Young Farmers & Agricultural Professionals from across the state will gather on Feb. 19-21 in Bloomington, Indiana, as the 2027 Innovate & Grow Conference moves south of Indianapolis.
“Indiana Farm Bureau will be among the first groups to host an event at the stunning new Bloomington Convention Center,” says Dustin Homan, INFB leadership development coordinator. “In June we hosted a YF&AP family event at Fair Oaks Farms in the northern part of the state. With moving Innovate & Grow to southern Indiana, we are purposely trying to program events throughout the state that better engage our younger members.”
Evolving for the Future
Innovate & Grow is presented by INFB YF&AP, whose goal is cultivating members to become the next generation of agricultural leaders through leadership development, awards, competitions and networking.
“Our conference is evolving, and this year we’re creating something special for the next generation,” says Vince Osborn, INFB YF&AP networking and events committee chair. “Whether you’re a farmer, homesteader or just interested in agriculture, Innovate & Grow is designed for 18- to 40-year-olds to meet, network and learn. Bring a friend, your spouse and your kids to be part of this exciting new chapter.”
The Innovate & Grow Conference is special due to its scope. Local events geared toward young agriculturalists are hosted by county Farm Bureaus and INFB’s 10 districts at different locations throughout the year. But hundreds are expected to attend the Innovate & Grow Conference, which will include a variety of activities.
“The event will include new tours showcasing southern Indiana agriculture on Friday and Saturday,” Homan says. “Timely and informative breakout sessions will still be offered, along with new mini-sessions so guests can attend more educational sessions and leave inspired.”
Cultivating Excellence
Award recipients will also be recognized at the conference, including collegiate discussion meet, outstanding county, and Achievement Award, Excellence in Ag and Rising Star award finalists.
This year’s keynote speaker is Staff Sgt. Keni Thomas, an American hero whose extraordinary story helped inspire the bestselling book and blockbuster film Black Hawk Down.
“Attendees will hear directly from someone who embodies resilience, leadership and courage,” Homan says.
Registration opens mid-December and closes Feb. 12. For more information, visit infb.org/events and click on “2027 Innovate & Grow Conference presented by Young Farmers & Ag Professionals.”
Looking ahead, Indianapolis will be host to the American Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference on March 10-13, 2028.
“We are encouraging our members to attend the national conference in our state capital,” Homan says. “INFB is also planning exclusive events for Indiana YF&AP members during the national conference.”
