Growing Opportunities, Challenging Assumptions at 2026 Farm Forward

Growing Opportunities, Challenging Assumptions at 2026 Farm Forward

January 8, 2026 | Brock Johnston

Ankeny, Iowa - Farm Forward, an interactive and farmer-focused event powered by the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), will be held Tuesday, Feb. 3, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the River Center in Des Moines.

Programming will reveal how changes in domestic and international markets are continuing to impact the value of Iowa's soybean crop. Industry experts will also pencil out what factors could influence the future of Iowa's bioenergy sector, ag policy, markets and more.

"The Farm Forward event is an exclusive opportunity for Iowa's soybean farmers to better understand and navigate the many production and market forces shaping our industry," says Tom Adam, ISA president and soybean farmer from Harper. "By attending this event, farmers will walk away better prepared for the next season and position themselves at the forefront of ag innovation and market strategy."

From trade and transportation to innovation, attendees will explore how asking better questions can lead to better outcomes for farmers, rural communities and consumers alike. Panel discussions will cover topics including:

• Global soybean trade dynamics;
• Soybean transportation and supply chains;
• Iowa's evolving biofuels landscape;
• New uses and market development opportunities; and
• Policy issues in 2026 and beyond.

Confirmed speakers include keynote Ray Starling, former Trump Ag Advisor and USDA Chief of Staff; Dr. Scott Gerlt, Chief Economist, American Soybean Association; Dr. Sandro Steinbach, Director for Agricultural Policy and Trade Studies, North Dakota State University; Lyndsey Erb, Director of Industry Affairs, U.S. Soybean Export Council; Mike Steenhoek, Executive Director, Soy Transportation Coalition; Allison Rivera, Vice President, Government and Legislative Affairs, National Grain and Feed Association; Craig Pietig, Vice President of Ag Products, Ag Processing Inc.; and more.

Attendees will also receive a ticket to the Iowa Ag Expo, formerly known as the Iowa Power and Farming Show, held at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines.

Register or view the full agenda here.

###

Funded in part by the soybean checkoff

Back