To support cover crop adoption in the Midwest, Practical Farmers of Iowa and the Iowa Soybean Association are excited to offer their Cover Crop Business Accelerator (CCBA) program. Now in its sixth year, the program helps new and established cover crop businesses expand to meet rising farmer demand for cover crop seed and application.
“There’s a huge opportunity for entrepreneurs to build thriving cover crop businesses in the Midwest,” Ann Krause, PFI’s senior cover crop business coordinator, says. “There’s a need for more of these businesses on the ground, and we’re happy to help them take the next step.”
Cover crop acres in Iowa have increased dramatically in recent years. The 2022 Census of Agriculture reported 1,282,608 acres of cover crops in Iowa — a 32% increase since 2017. However, to continue to grow and meet Iowa’s target of 12.5 million acres of cover crops, there must be an increase in the supply of seed and number of applicators on the landscape.
To address this need, participants receive personalized business coaching, agronomy assistance and financial support which helps them pay for equipment and gives incentives for seeding.
“Our partnership with PFI on this program is a prime example of how we can collectively advance conservation in our state,” Mike Gilman, Iowa Soybean Association’s senior conservation program manager, says. “Through this collaboration, we're accelerating the adoption of cover crops across Iowa. This effort directly contributes to improved soil health, water quality and the long-term sustainability and profitability of our farms."
Drew Gieselman of Columbus Junction, Iowa, participated in the CCBA program in 2024.
“My key takeaway from the program has been the networking opportunities,” Drew says. “PFI does a great job at providing opportunities for other like-minded individuals to connect and learn from one another.”
Applications for the program are now open and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis with priority for beginning farmers in Iowa, Nebraska and Minnesota.
To apply, visit practicalfarmers.org/cover-crop-business-accelerator-program. For questions, contact Ann Krause at (515) 232-5661 or ann.krause@practicalfarmers.org/.
This program is supported by Builders Initiative and the Walmart Foundation.
