AMES, Iowa – More than 40 agribusiness executives from across the nation participated in the annual Entrepreneurship Agribusiness Executive Conference hosted by the Iowa State Agricultural Entrepreneurship Initiative January 7-8.
The conference provided a unique forum for assessing emerging trends and issues facing agribusiness. Executives engaged in sessions on entrepreneurial leadership, strategic innovation in agribusiness and international agriculture business development. The goal of the conference was to push participants’ entrepreneurial boundaries and provoke constructive dialogue on strategic innovation in agribusiness.
Industry leaders participated in an interactive discussion on creating positive company culture with Dave Maxheimer, human resource director, and Clint Middleton, culture coach, from Hagie Manufacturing. David Ringholz, associate professor and chair of the Iowa State industrial design department, taught participants how to approach business problems with creativity, innovation and management.
Networking was also a focus for the conference. Participants were invited to a networking reception hosted by Iowa State alum Roger Underwood (’80 agricultural business), co-founder of Becker Underwood.
The Agricultural Entrepreneurship Initiative at Iowa State University is dedicated to providing students, faculty and industry professionals practical business development and entrepreneurial experiences essential for their success in a fast-paced, dynamic industry. For more information on this conference and to learn more about participating next year, look online.