Empowering voices
Empowering and equipping women to be strong and effective leaders and advocates for agriculture. Women are essential to agriculture, as leaders on and off the farm, from running a farm or ranch business to advocating on Capitol Hill. The American Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership program provides women with opportunities for growth and development to sharpen their skills and strengthen their ability to inspire change.
Women in Ag Survey
Women play a vital role in American agriculture—contributing through production, advocacy, education, and entrepreneurship. The National Women in Agriculture Study will explore women’s leadership and involvement across the industry, identify barriers and opportunities, and provide actionable insights to strengthen engagement and support systems.
To build a sustainable future for U.S. agriculture, it is essential to recognize and showcase the contributions of all who shape the sector. This study offers a unique opportunity to highlight the significant role women play in driving innovation, leadership, and sustainability in agriculture both today and for generations to come.
According to the most recent Census of Agriculture, women make up more than one-third of all U.S. farm operators and are increasingly leading in farm management, agribusiness, research, and advocacy. They bring innovation through diversified operations, sustainability practices, and value-added enterprises, while also strengthening rural communities through leadership and outreach. With rising participation in organizations such as FFA, 4-H, and collegiate agriculture programs, the pipeline of future women leaders in agriculture is strong. Their voices, leadership, and vision remain essential to ensuring the resilience and vitality of American agriculture for generations to come.
This survey is part of a national effort to better understand the experiences, needs, and perspectives of women in agriculture today. Responses will help identify what is working well, where gaps exist, and how agricultural communities and organizations can better support the critical role of women in the sector— from farmers and ranchers to educators, advocates, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. Findings will inform leadership development, outreach strategies, and systems designed to equip and empower women in agriculture, with a public summary of results to be shared.
This effort is made possible through the dedicated commitment to continuous growth and leadership development of the American Farm Bureau Women's Leadership Committee and support from JBS and CoBank. This effort reflects a shared commitment to elevating the voices and experiences of women in agriculture across the country.
Key Objectives:
• Capturing diverse perspectives from all 50 states and Puerto Rico
• Understanding leadership pathways, mentorship experiences and advocacy efforts • Identifying training needs and preferences for women in agriculture
• Highlighting opportunities for community-building and representation