Key Takeaways
- Republic Regional Seed Network formed through acquisition of NC+, Midwest Seed Genetics, and Crow’s, offering a regionalized seed model.
- Led by Dan Funk of Funk Agriculture LLC, continuing a family legacy spanning four generations in seed innovation.
- The network decentralizes branding while centralizing operations to improve scalability and efficiency.
- Republic maintains strong genetics and trait partnerships and emphasizes high seed quality and regional product alignment.
- Aims to provide long-term, consistent opportunities for farmers and seed professionals seeking independent alternatives.
Republic Regional Seed Network Established by Funk Agriculture
A New Model for Independent Seed Brands in the U.S.
Funk Agriculture LLC, led by Dan Funk, has announced the formation of the Republic Regional Seed Network, a new independent seed enterprise structured to serve entrepreneurial growers and seed professionals. The network builds on Funk’s acquisition of NC+ and Midwest Seed Genetics in 2023 and now includes Crow’s to represent the East, forming a broad regional footprint across the United States.
The Republic Regional Seed Network will operate with NC+ in the West, Midwest Seed Genetics in the Central and Upper Corn Belt, and Crow’s in the East. Each brand is tailored to its respective regional market, supported by a centralized operating system designed to increase efficiency and maintain consistent product quality.
“My family has been in the seed business for 90 years,” said Dan Funk. “I’m honored to now be the fourth generation committed to the mission of serving the independent American farmer.”
Regional Brand Focus with Centralized Operations
Addressing Industry Inefficiencies with a Scalable Framework
The leadership team at Republic has positioned the Republic Regional Seed Network to meet the evolving needs of modern agriculture. According to Brad Schwartz, Head of Sales & Business Development, agility is key to delivering value to the next generation of farmers.
“It’s no longer who can just offer the right seed to the right acre, but also who can deliver the right model to the right acre,” said Schwartz.
Krista Mathisen, Head of Finance & Operations, added that Republic is aiming to modernize how the seed business functions.
“By decentralizing brands to fit the regions and cultures they serve, while centralizing operations to scale with greater efficiency and expertise, we’re creating a strong foundation for long-term growth.”
High Standards and Regional Expertise
Seed Quality and Portfolio Strategy at the Core
The Republic Regional Seed Network collaborates with leading genetics and trait providers to curate regionally adapted seed portfolios. Steve Sick, Head of Product, emphasized the company’s quality benchmarks.
“We’ll put our lineups against any in the industry. With our production partner, we maintain one of the highest standards of seed quality across the industry—always a hallmark of a Funk-owned business.”
A Generational Vision for the Seed Industry
Supporting Farmers, Advisors, and Independent Seed Professionals
The formation of the Republic Regional Seed Network reflects a long-term vision for the seed sector during a time of transition for farmers and advisers alike. Funk emphasized the importance of building a sustainable and consistent home for those aligned with independent seed values.
“We know this is a time of great transition—for generations on the farm, for a generation of trusted advisers, and for succession at the seed company level,” Funk said. “With Republic, we will be a home for those who want a consistent, long-lasting opportunity with independent seed brands.”
As the agricultural landscape continues to evolve, Republic plans to maintain its focus on supporting independent growers through high-value products, efficient operations, and a generational outlook.
