MANKATO – MN AG EXPO returns in 2023 with a robust agenda that promises to bring lasting connections and conversations among the agriculture community.
“We’ve been working hard over the past year to find new ways to engage with our industry and think differently about how to hold a dynamic trade show in 2023,” said Joe Smentek, executive director of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association (MSGA). “Our team has collaborated with our industry partners and sponsors to create a show that the farming community can learn from and have fun with.”
Minnesota’s premier indoor agriculture trade show is held Jan. 18-19, 2023, at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato. The Minnesota Corn Growers Association (MCGA), which co-sponsors MN AG EXPO, and MSGA are holding their annual meetings and finalizing 2023 policy resolutions on Wednesday, Jan. 18 and Thursday, Jan. 19, respectively.
“The grassroots resolution process is very important to what we do at MSGA,” President Bob Worth said. “Those policies are our guidebook for the year and help us when we meet with the American Soybean Association during their meeting at Commodity Classic.”
More than 80 exhibitors and vendors will pack the trade show floor, covering all the topics and business that matter to agriculture, from research to regulations to financial experts. Panelists and breakout sessions will address issues related to carbon credits, the upcoming Farm Bill; agriculture education; farm safety; and nitrogen and water quality. Legislative and agency leaders, including Gov. Tim Walz and Agriculture Commissioner Thom Petersen, are once again expected to attend MN AG EXPO and visit with farmer-leaders and exhibitors.
“Minnesota Corn Growers Association is thrilled to participate once again in the annual MN AG EXPO in January,” said Minnesota Corn Executive Director Adam Birr. “Our board, council and staff are looking forward to connecting with current and potential members to share the exciting projects we have in store for 2023 — our 45th anniversary year.”
Minnesota Soybean’s Booth #23 will house the latest soybean checkoff innovations and MSGA’s 2023 policy initiatives. On EXPO eve on Jan. 17, MSGA welcomes directors and industry supporters to its hospitality suite – sponsored by Chevron Renewable Energy Group, MEG Corp and Profinium – at Mankato’s Hilton Garden Inn. MSGA will also hold its annual fundraiser Jan. 18 at 6 p.m. at the Loose Moose Salon in Mankato. This year’s event is “EXPO After Hours: Sports Carnival.” For $25, attendees can support MSGA’s political action committee – a program that directs funds toward candidates who have supported farm-friendly policies – by playing games, visiting with farmer-directors, industry leaders and bidding on live silent auction items.
“What’s really fun about EXPO is we’re all gathering together as a community and preparing for the year ahead,” Worth said.
Come learn what researchers are discovering about new uses for corn, meet Minnesota Corn board and council members at Booth #55 in the trade show and network with growers from all over the state. MCGA’s resolution session begins Jan. 18 at 9 a.m., followed immediately by its annual meeting. MCGA is also holdings its annual silent auction and reception Jan. 18 at 4 p.m., followed by dinner and guest speaker, National Corn Growers Association lobbyist Tom Sell, who will deliver a legislative lay of the land in Washington, D.C.
Attendance is free at MN AG EXPO, but registration is required to ensure free meals. Registration runs through Jan. 6. Learn more about EXPO’s new look by visiting mnagexpo.com.
