By Andi Anderson
Registration is now open for the 2026 Michigan Agricultural Credit Conference, an educational event designed to provide agricultural professionals with valuable insights into the latest developments affecting the agricultural industry. The conference will take place on October 27, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the Molecular Plant Sciences Building on the Michigan State University campus.
Hosted by the Michigan State University Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics (AFRE), the conference serves as an important platform for agricultural lenders, agribusiness representatives, policymakers, and other industry professionals. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about current economic conditions, emerging agricultural trends, and key issues influencing the future of farming and agribusiness.
The event is designed to help attendees better understand the factors shaping Michigan agriculture. Discussions will focus on a wide range of topics, including agricultural policy, economic conditions, farmland markets, labor challenges, livestock production, innovation, commodity markets, and dairy industry outlooks. These subjects play a critical role in helping industry professionals make informed decisions and support the agricultural sector.
The conference will begin with a networking breakfast, providing attendees with an opportunity to connect with fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and build valuable industry relationships. Networking opportunities have long been a key feature of the event, helping participants strengthen professional connections while gaining practical knowledge from experts.
A major highlight of the conference will be the keynote presentation delivered by Seth Meyer, Director of the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI), Associate Professor of Agricultural and Applied Economics at the University of Missouri, and former USDA Chief Economist. His presentation will focus on farm policy and the factors influencing agricultural decision-making in today's changing economic environment.
The morning program will also feature a special session focused on land, labor, livestock, and innovation. During this session, Michigan State University Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics faculty Zach Rutledge, Tor Tolhurst, Jaime Luke, and Vincenzina Caputo will share insights on important developments affecting agriculture and rural economies.
Following lunch, attendees will participate in an Agriculture Outlook and Panel Discussion featuring Jonathan LaPorte of MSU Extension, Angie Setzer of Consus, Sarina Sharp of Ag Business Solutions and the Daily Dairy Report, and Theresa Sisung of Michigan Farm Bureau. These experts will discuss market conditions, commodity outlooks, dairy trends, and other topics relevant to producers, lenders, and agribusiness professionals.
The Michigan Agricultural Credit Conference has established a strong reputation as a valuable educational and networking event for agricultural credit professionals. Previous conferences have attracted significant participation from representatives of the agricultural lending and banking industries, highlighting the importance of timely information in a constantly changing agricultural landscape.
Registration for the conference is available through October 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET. The registration fee is $95 per person and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Both individual and group registration options are available, providing flexibility for organizations and professionals interested in attending.
Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Soybeans