Iowa Agribusiness Association Showcase Highlights Industry Policy Talks

Annual event brings together agronomists, retailers, and industry partners to discuss workforce, conservation, and regulatory challenges.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI) held its annual Showcase event in Des Moines, where industry leaders discussed pressing issues facing Iowa agriculture, including workforce pressures, conservation goals, and the evolving regulatory landscape. AAI CEO Julie Kenney emphasized the importance of collaboration across commodity groups, research organizations, and state agencies as agronomists and ag retailers work to keep pace with conservation efforts and compliance requirements.

Why it matters

The Showcase reflects the growing complexity facing Iowa's agribusinesses, as they navigate tighter margins, changing expectations, and an increasingly challenging regulatory environment. Maintaining a strong business climate and providing farmers with practical tools and information are key priorities for the industry.

The details

The Showcase featured a wide range of educational sessions and networking opportunities, with many conversations centered on workforce pressures, conservation goals, and the evolving regulatory landscape. Kenney noted that partnerships with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and Iowa State University help provide timely updates on regulatory changes and best management practices, giving agronomists and applicators the information they need to support their farmer customers.

  • The Agribusiness Association of Iowa Showcase took place over two days this past week in Des Moines.
  • The annual event is held each February.

The players

Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI)

A trade association representing agribusinesses across Iowa, including agronomists, retailers, and industry partners.

Julie Kenney

CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa.

Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

A state agency that works with the agribusiness industry on regulatory changes and best management practices.

Iowa State University

A public research university that collaborates with the agribusiness industry on educational and research initiatives.

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What they’re saying

“Maintaining a strong business climate remains a priority as members navigate tighter margins and changing expectations across the industry.”

— Julie Kenney, CEO, Agribusiness Association of Iowa (iowaagribusinessradionetwork.com)

“Collaboration across commodity groups, research organizations, and state agencies is becoming increasingly important as agronomists and ag retailers work to keep pace with conservation efforts and compliance requirements.”

— Julie Kenney, CEO, Agribusiness Association of Iowa (iowaagribusinessradionetwork.com)

What’s next

The Agribusiness Association of Iowa will continue to work with industry partners, state agencies, and research institutions to address the evolving challenges facing Iowa's agribusinesses and the farmers they serve.

The takeaway

The Agribusiness Association of Iowa Showcase highlights the growing complexity facing Iowa's agribusinesses, as they navigate tighter margins, changing expectations, and an increasingly challenging regulatory environment. Collaboration, education, and providing practical tools and information to farmers are key priorities for the industry as it works to maintain a strong business climate and support the state's agricultural producers.