FCI’s first ever women's conference exemplifies their investment in the future through education. The event gathered a diverse group of women varying in age and agricultural involvement. Attendees were curious about the pulse of the agriculture economy, land values, movement from fossil fuels to green energy, and business financial advice.

This conference was timely as a major wealth transfer of $68 trillion in the general economy, with up to $4 trillion in agriculture, is expected between 2025 and 2040. Women currently own about one-third of businesses, and this could increase to two-thirds by 2040, due to women outliving men by seven years on average and more women owning farm and ranch businesses, documented by the recent census data. Youth organizations like 4-H and FFA reflect this trend with 50 percent of membership and 75 percent of leadership teams being female. Women have a large impact on management decisions and in interactions with the non-farming public.

During the conference, we discussed the current state of the agriculture economy facing declining prices and elevated interest rates, thus softening farmland values. However, there is hope as the best business and financial practices are built during challenging economic times.

Another major theme of my presentation was navigating economic cycles by setting business goals and separating business and family living budgets. The importance of financial liquidity and following working capital trends was also emphasized.

Other key takeaways included balancing after-tax profits and capital expenditure decisions, being consistent in livestock and grain marketing, and carefully reading any leases, loans, and contracts.