The FCS Financial Connect Ag Seminar, held Tuesday, December 9, 2025, in Excello, MO, was specifically designed to help young and beginning farmers thrive in the current agricultural landscape. The complimentary seminar provided attendees with essential business skills, expert advice, networking opportunities, and information on the valuable resources FCS Financial offers to help them start and grow their operations. This event is a key component of the Connect program, which provides specialized loans, essential education, and supportive outreach for young and beginning producers across Missouri. Learn more about the Connect program here: Y&B page
Driving Profitability and Managing Risk
A key focus of the day was increasing farm profitability and managing market volatility.
Shanon Sims of Ranching for Profit delivered two highly anticipated sessions. His morning segment, "A New Paradigm in Farming & Ranching," was followed by "Profitability: The 3 Secrets," equipping producers with key financial fundamentals for running a successful farm.
In the afternoon, Matt Bennett of AgMarket led the session, "Managing Risk in Volatile Markets." This crucial presentation gave young farmers the tools to navigate commodity markets and make informed decisions to protect their businesses.
"The success of our Connect Ag Seminar underscores the immense value of education and networking for the next generation,” shares Madison Farnan, Manager of Marketplace Engagement, FCS Financial. She continues, “The upcoming events are a testament to our commitment to providing accessible, top-tier resources that help Missouri farmers and ranchers build resilient and sustainable operations for the long term.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
The strong engagement from Tuesday’s seminar highlights the industry's demand for high-value educational content. FCS Financial is committed to continuing this support with two major events in 2026.
1. 2026 Ag Seminars: "Where Ag Minds Meet"
FCS Financial will host two no-cost, daytime Ag Seminars in January 2026, open to all Missouri growers. These events are designed to provide timely information and resources on the topics that matter most.
Dates & Locations:
- Wednesday, January 21, 2026: Springfield, MO - The Barley House
- Thursday, January 22, 2026: Chillicothe, MO - Litton Campus, Mervyn W. Jenkins Expo
The 2026 agenda features two prominent experts: Roger McEowen and Dr. David Widmar. Attendees will benefit from sessions on:
- Navigating 2026: Tax and Policy Strategies for Farmers and Ranchers with Roger McEowen
- Navigating Economic Headwinds & Opportunities with Dr. David Widmar
2. Empowered Women, Empower Agriculture Seminar
FCS Financial will also host the "Empowered Women, Empower Agriculture" seminar on Wednesday, March 3, 2026. More details on this important event, dedicated to supporting women in the industry, will be announced in January.
Register Today!
The registration deadline for the January Ag Seminars is January 16. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to register quickly, as seating is limited, and advance reservations are requested.
Click here to register online: https://www.myfcsfinancial.com/about-us/ag-seminar
FCS Financial is dedicated to hosting meaningful events that invest in the future of agriculture. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming seminars!
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