Key Takeaways
- Women in Agribusiness (WIA) reports unprecedented student interest in its 2025 Student Scholarship Program
- More than 30 applicants await sponsorship to attend the annual WIA Summit, joining nearly 1,000 women leaders in agriculture
- Scholarships cover registration, accommodations, and access to networking and educational events at the Summit
- Over 400 students have participated since the program began, with $1.365 million in total sponsor contributions to date
- Sponsors include ADM, Bunge, Cargill, Wilbur-Ellis, and others committed to supporting the next generation of women in ag
WIA Calls for Additional Sponsors Amid Rising Student Interest
The Women in Agribusiness (WIA) Student Scholarship Program is seeking additional sponsors for the upcoming 2025 WIA Summit, following a surge in student applications. More than 30 students currently await sponsorship to attend the three-day event, which brings together nearly 1,000 women professionals and students across the agri-food sector.
Scholarships cover full registration, hotel accommodations, and participation in all Summit events—including workshops, networking sessions, and industry-led discussions. Each student is typically paired with a sponsor aligned with their academic or professional interests.
A Growing Network of Support for Emerging Women Leaders in Agriculture
Since its inception, the WIA Student Scholarship Program has supported over 400 students, spanning undergraduate to PhD levels. With annual sponsorship contributions totaling over $100,000, the program has raised $1.365 million over 13 years to promote diversity and professional development in agriculture.
This year’s sponsors include organizations such as ADM, Cargill, Smithfield, Nuveen Capital, and Manulife, all emphasizing the importance of long-term engagement with emerging talent.
“Supporting the WIA Student Scholarship Program aligns with our mission of creating a future with innovation, quality, and sustainable nutrition,” said Jerry Brown, Senior Vice President of Communications at the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC).
Industry Sponsors Highlight Long-Term Commitment
Several current sponsors note the program’s ability to foster meaningful, lasting relationships between students and companies.
“At Nuveen Natural Capital, our partnership with WIA reflects our commitment to advancing women, equity, and leadership in agriculture,” said Nina Krause, Managing Director for U.S. Row Crops, Southeast. “We’re honored to sponsor a student—it’s an investment in mentorship, education, and industry access.”
Danielle Harris, Managing Director at Manulife, added: “We see this not as a one-time sponsorship, but as the beginning of a long-term relationship. The WIA Summit provides an opportunity for students to connect with professionals and gain confidence to step into their careers.”
Scholarship Alumni Share Lasting Impact
Former scholars like Reagan Russell, now a production coordinator at WIA, credit the scholarship with helping to launch their careers. “The Summit has altered our career path significantly,” said Russell. “Whether you’re sure of your direction or still figuring it out, this is a front-row seat to real conversations in the industry.”
Sponsorship and Application Details
Interested sponsors can contact John Hayes, WIA Business Development Manager, at jhayes@womeninag.com. University students interested in applying for a scholarship may do so via the WIA application portal. The deadline for student applications is July 13.
