New for 2026
Illinois Agribusiness Network Awards
The Illinois Agribusiness Network is excited to announce two awards to be presented at the 2026 Illinois Agricultural Summit on February 3, 2026. Award recipients will be awarded a trophy and complementary tickets for up to 8 people at the Summit. Award candidates can be self-nominated or nominated by someone else. Click HERE for the registration nomination form or email ILAgribusiness@gmail.com for more details. Applications due by January 6, 2026.
Agribusiness Professional Award
The Illinois Agribusiness Network proudly presents the Agribusiness Professional of the Year award, recognizing leaders who have transformed Central Illinois agriculture through visionary thinking, strategic innovation, and genuine mentorship. This prestigious honor celebrates professionals, over the age of 35, who have demonstrated not only business excellence and sustained growth, but also a deep commitment to strengthening their communities and cultivating the next generation of agricultural leaders. We seek nominees whose influence extends beyond their own success—individuals who have left an indelible mark on the industry through their dedication to sustainable practices, industry advancement, and community involvement. This award honors those whose careers reflect the highest standards of professional integrity, leadership, and service to the agricultural community. If you know someone whose vision, passion, and impact have elevated agriculture in Central Illinois, we invite you to nominate them for this distinguished recognition.
Emerging Agribusiness Professional Award
The Illinois Agribusiness Network is proud to present the Emerging Agribusiness Professional of the Year award, recognizing young leaders under the age of 35 who are already making waves in Central Illinois agriculture and agribusiness. This award celebrates rising professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, forward-thinking innovation, and a passion for advancing the agricultural industry early in their careers. We seek nominees whose early achievements show tremendous promise and potential for future growth as transformational leaders in agriculture. This honor recognizes those who are already contributing meaningfully to their communities while promoting a vibrant, positive image of production agriculture and agribusiness. If you know an up-and-coming agricultural professional whose vision and impact are shaping the future of Central Illinois agriculture, we invite you to nominate them for this distinctive recognition.
