Registration is now open for Indiana Farm Bureau’s newest program, the Farm Business and Diversification Conference happening in September.
“It’s to help farmers or those in agriculture through these tough economic times—to help with diversification and other income streams for their farm and farming operation,” explains INFB Vice President Kendell Culp.
He says the goal of the event is to encourage better investment in agriculture and our rural communities.
“A lot of these are family farms and have been in the family for generations, and the hope is to continue to pass those on to future generations. A lot of times we just have to make changes. We can’t do the same things that we’ve always done and expect different outcomes.”
Breakout topics will cover alternative income streams, digital marketing, insurance and liability protection, and more, like bringing livestock into the operation.
“Having a contract finishing operation, for example, for livestock or swine production—we’re going to talk about contracting and what should be included in those contracts.”
Patrick Nycz, food business and marketing administrator for Purdue University, will lead a breakout on the food industry and launching a new product, and Caroline Patrick from Indiana Grown will moderate a panel of experts discussing direct-to-consumer models that have been successful.
Culp says registration is required but attendance is open to anyone.
“If you’re an Indiana Farm Bureau member, it is free for you to attend. If you’re not a Farm Bureau member, it’s $50—a very minimal charge. We’re happy to sign you up as a member and take care of that cost as well. But free for members, $50 otherwise, and you can go to our website at infb.org/events to register online to attend.”
The event will be held at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds on Thursday, Sept. 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET.
