Secretary Perdue to announce new mentorship initiative in Iowa August 5, Register Now!

On August 5, 2017, Secretary Perdue plans to announce an initiative that will increase access to business mentorships by farmers, ranchers and small business entrepreneurs.  Please join us for this announcement and a panel discussion on supporting the next generation of farmers and ranchers! New farmers need people in their corner who can help them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.  Advisors from a wide range of backgrounds can support new farmers through agricultural mentorship.  While a generation of farmers prepares to transition off the land, the next generation is exploring ways to get started and grow their operations.  USDA is working with partners like you to ensure that farmers and ranchers have access to the support and tools they need to succeed, and this new mentorship initiative that Secretary Perdue will announce on August 5 is an important tool in the toolbox. I hope that you can join us for this event in person or on USDA’s Facebook page, where we will be broadcasting live!  Please also share this announcement with your membership and producers in Iowa.  Logistics:Where: Iowa Ag Summit held at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. When:  Saturday, August 5, 2017. Events: 11:00am Secretary Perdue’s keynote address and announcement. 3:00pm Panel discussion “Supporting the Next Generation of Farmers and Ranchers” Attendance at the Iowa Ag Summit is free but registration is required at https://iowaagsummit.com/, and late registrations will be accepted.