Feb 23, 2011Agribusiness Education Foundation initiative to raise $4 million to train future ag leaders
The Agribusiness Educational Foundation (ABEF) has announced new efforts to advance its mission of supporting and developing future agribusiness leaders. Named Vision2020, the new initiative seeks to raise up to $4 million over the next 10 years for college student scholarships, student and young professional development programs and support of the National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) Student Program. Funding may also be made available for outreach to high school juniors and seniors, promoting careers in ag business, marketing and communications.
The fundraising efforts are being led by the staff of NAMA, which manages ABEF, as well as Mike Gustafson, owner of Deer’s Landing Communications.
“With today’s interest in the ag business, its current and emerging opportunities, ABEF’s mission becomes even more vital,” Gustafson said. “Employers are discovering it’s more and more difficult to find qualified individuals in Ag business, marketing and communications. We need to attract more young people to the industry, support their education, and help them network and develop in the professional environment. Our hope is that our current ABEF partners, future corporate sponsors and private individuals will join us in this renewed effort.”
ABEF works with donors to accept a variety of funding options including program sponsorships, annual unrestricted and restricted gifts, and endowments. For more information, call the ABEF offices at 913-491-6500 or Mike Gustafson at 217-251-3659.
