Do you know a young, beginning, or small farmer with a passion for agriculture who is making a real difference in their community?
Compeer Financial is accepting nominations for the 2025 GroundBreaker of the Year Award through Aug. 30.
The grand prize winner will receive a $5,000 cash award and can direct a one-time charitable gift of $2,500 to an organization of their choice through the Compeer Financial Fund for Rural America. Additionally, two honorable mentions will each receive a $2,500 cash award.
To qualify, nominees must be actively farming in Illinois, Minnesota or Wisconsin and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Age 35 or younger at the time of application
- Under 10 years of farming or ranching experience
- Generate less than $350,000 in annual gross sales for 2023
Anyone from Illinois, Minnesota, or Wisconsin can nominate a candidate, including family, friends, colleagues or partners. Farmers can also nominate themselves.
Compeer is looking for stories with heart and examples of passion and perseverance. The selection committee evaluates nominees based on agricultural leadership, community involvement, and dedication to the industry.
Want to know what makes a great submission? Check out past winners to hear their stories: https://www.compeer.com/ag-financing/agriculture-loans/groundbreakers/groundbreaker-of-the-year-award-winners/2024-groundbreaker-of-the-year
Winners will be announced at Compeer Financial’s GroundBreakers Conference in February 2025. Beyond cash prizes, winners will share their stories and be featured in a video.
Nominate today: https://www.compeer.com/ag-financing/agriculture-loans/groundbreakers