Building Confidence: What Lenders Want to See

Presented by Farm Credit · 45–50 minutes

Learn what lenders look for when evaluating a loan request and how the Five Cs of Credit influence financing decisions. Participants will explore the importance of financial records, including a strong balance sheet, and gain practical tips for preparing loan applications, securing funding, and writing competitive grant applications. This session will help beginning farmers build financial confidence and better position themselves for future financing opportunities.

Farm Liability Workshop

Presented by Nationwide · Presenter: Todd Givler, Sponsor Relations Account Executive for Nationwide

This session on farm liability basics will break down what liability means for farmers, where the biggest risks occur, and how to prevent them. You’ll be introduced to identifying common liability exposures — like visitor safety, employee injuries, equipment hazards, and product risks. Participants will also learn how to apply practical solutions to reduce liability claims. This session is designed to build awareness of the unique legal challenges that come with farming operations.

The Goat Whisperer of Maple Farm: An Agricultural Youth Entrepreneurship Exercise (Youth/Young Adult)

Presented by Farm Credit · 90 minutes, with small group activities

Dive into the inspiring story of JP Maple, a teenage entrepreneur who built a thriving business from her family’s goat farm. In this interactive workshop, students will explore the fundamentals of entrepreneurship through hands-on activities including profit calculation, product development, and marketing strategy. Participants will work in teams to create their own agricultural product ideas, analyze costs and profits, and design compelling advertisements. This session blends agricultural education with real-world business skills, empowering youth to think creatively and entrepreneurially.

Ag Careers Workshop

Presented by Nationwide · Presenter: Krista Soda, Sr. Consultant of Industry Relations for Nationwide

Your Ag story has a next chapter. You don’t have to leave agriculture, or be fresh out of college, to build a career beyond the farm. Many professionals wear two hats — on the farm and in the corporate setting. Nationwide will share what that looks like inside their company to provide a basis for discussion.