Women in Agriculture: Empowering the Next Generation of Ag Leaders

Did you know that 2026 has been designated by the United Nations to be the International Year of the Woman Farmer – a way to spotlight the growing number of women around the world who play essential roles in agriculture. 

Of course, whether working on a farm, at a ranch, or in an ag-related position, women have always made a big impact in agriculture. According to a report by the USDA, in 2022 the U.S. had 1.2 million female producers, about 36% of the country’s producers. Fifty-eight percent of all U.S. farms had one or more female producers making decisions about the farm’s operation — and on average they were younger, more likely to be beginning farmers and more likely to live on the farm than their male counterparts. 

Men still outnumber women in the ag industry. But the field is diversifying, and more women than ever before are creating their own career paths and lending their unique talents. There are many ways for women to have careers in agriculture, from veterinarian to food science specialists, and horticulturists to communications experts. Plus, farm grants for women can help female farmers begin their own operations.

Thinking of taking the leap into agriculture? Read on for more tools and resources, from women farmer grants to ways to connect with other professionals in the field.

Helpful Resources for Women in Agriculture

Many resources have been developed to support women as they carve a niche in agriculture. Programs designed for women address their unique challenges, foster their innovative ideas and encourage the next generation to lead the industry into the future.

American Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership

The American Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Program engages female farmers with the agricultural training and education they need to become powerful advocates for today’s agriculture. The program provides women with training in leadership and communication skills, as well as networking opportunities to strengthen their ability to create positive change in their communities and in the agricultural industry.

Women, Land & Legacy

The USDA’s Women, Land & Legacy program connects women with resources for making informed decisions for their land and their communities. It creates a bridge between government, nonprofit organizations, faith-based and community groups.

USDA Women in Agriculture Mentoring Network

The USDA Women in Agriculture Mentoring Network helps women in farming connect to share their experiences with one another. Resources include a newsletter, conferences and gatherings and a quarterly engagement call. Email agwomenlead@usda.gov to be connected.

FarmHER

FarmHer connects and inspires women in agriculture. Whether online, on the farm or ranch or at an event, this organization brings women together by telling the stories of professional ag women nationwide.

Annie’s Project

Annie’s Project provides educational programs that focus on women’s roles in the modern farm operation. The nonprofit organization fosters problem-solving and decision-making skills to strengthen generational farms.

Farm Grants for Women

You may qualify for funding opportunities aimed at increasing the number of women and other underrepresented groups in the farming community. Check out the USDA’s Women Farmer resources as well as the Farm Service Agency’s list of opportunities for women and minority farmers, including various types of loans.

Forming a network doesn’t require a formal set of membership rules. These women in Wisconsin, for example, have developed a local support system that started as a simple potluck where they gather to share information and tour one another’s farms. These networks have sprouted business partnerships and resource-sharing opportunities. They serve as an example of what can be accomplished by working together.

Nurturing Early Interest

If you know a young girl who is an animal lover, an avid gardener or a budding chef, you may have a future ag professional on your hands. In other words, people don’t need to grow up on the family farm or ranch to have a career in agriculture. Because careers in agriculture are so diverse, a small interest can develop into a fulfilling career path. If you think your child may have an interest in an ag-related field, introducing them to 4-H or FFA programs may help them develop their interests into a viable future career.

Supporting the Next Generation

Through growing up on a farm and fostering a desire to stay there, or developing an interest through career exploration programs, more women than ever before are pursuing careers in agriculture. And today, there are career pathways to suit just about any interest. Finding hands-on opportunities and classes to support an interest is a great way to create connections that lead to a successful future in agriculture.

How Can You Get Involved in Supporting?

Looking for more ways to support an interest in agriculture? Get involved in your local Farm Bureau and take part in activities at a local level.