Stay Informed

The 2022 Young Farmers & Ag Professionals Discussion Meet will look a bit different from previous years. Instead of holding the first two rounds over the summer, all rounds will now take place during Indiana Farm Bureau’s state convention.

“Returning to in-person events is something the YF&AP State Committee values, and they wanted to bring the competition back to one location,” said Brandon Rice, INFB’s leadership development coordinator. “A lot of our members already take days off work for convention, and the committee hopes this format will increase participation by not drawing it out over different days and locations.”

INFB’s state convention is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 15-Saturday, Dec. 17, in Indianapolis. The first round of the discussion meet is tentatively set for 3 p.m. ET on Thursday, with the second round to follow. The sweet 16 and final four rounds will be held on Friday. Again this year, all discussion meet participants will have their hotel rooms paid for.

This annual competition is designed to help young farmers and ag professionals effectively share and collaborate on ideas that address important agricultural issues. Participants must be members of INFB and between the ages of 18-35.

“This is a great networking opportunity for like-minded young farmers and ag professionals to get together and discuss agricultural issues impacting rural America,” said Rice.

If you’re interested in competing this year, it’s not too early to start preparing.

“Discussion Meet questions are already available from AFBF,” said Jessica Wenning, District 6 YF&AP representative. “AFBF also hosts training calls throughout the year to help individuals prepare for the Discussion Meet.”

The four discussion meet finalists will receive plaques and recognition during the state convention awards program. The overall state winner will receive a $4,000 cash prize sponsored by Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance and an all-expenses paid trip to the American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Convention in San Juan, Puerto Rico, scheduled for Jan. 6-11, 2023, to compete at the national discussion meet. The three runners-up each will receive $1,000.