Michigan Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer members are invited to the national stage at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers (YF&R) Leadership Conference, set for March 13–17, 2026, in Portland, Oregon.
Hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation, the annual event draws more than 1,000 farmers, ranchers and agricultural professionals from across the country for a weekend of learning, networking and inspiration. The conference offers a unique opportunity for Michigan participants to engage with national leaders, explore innovative ideas, and return home energized to strengthen their local programs and communities.
Tiered Travel Support
To ensure continued access while encouraging long-term engagement, the state Young Farmer committee will again provide travel assistance through the Young Farmer Trust Fund, using a new tiered model for 2026:
- First-time attendees will receive full support, including flight, hotel and registration. Attendees will cover airport parking, Ubers, meals not included with the conference except Saturday night’s Michigan dinner. Approximate member cost: $200
- Second-time attendees will receive a hotel room and registration. Attendees will be responsible for covering flight, airport parking, Ubers, meals not included with the conference except Saturday night’s Michigan dinner. Approximate member cost: $900
- Returning attendees (3+ years) will receive registration, a Michigan YF-branded apparel item, welcome goodie bag, and an invitation to the Michigan dinner Saturday. Approximate member cost: $1,400
This structure expands opportunities for new participants while maintaining support for experienced Young Farmers continuing their leadership development. Members are also encouraged to apply for the MFB External Leadership Development Scholarship.
Application Process
A statewide application will be used to select participants based on Farm Bureau involvement, leadership goals and plans to apply lessons learned from the conference.
Apply online by Dec. 1. Selected participants will be notified in December and begin travel planning in January.
Attendees receiving MFB's financial support are expected to share their experience by posting on social media, contributing a Farm Gate article, presenting to their county Farm Bureau board, and/or participating in a panel at a future Michigan Young Farmer event.
Learning & Networking
Throughout the four-day event, participants will engage in workshops, tours and breakout sessions centered on advocacy, consumer engagement, leadership development and the future of agriculture. The conference also includes a national service project and evening networking opportunities that highlight Portland’s vibrant culture and agricultural diversity.
Past attendee Loren King said the conference left a lasting impression.
“One thing that surprised me was how in-depth sessions went,” he said. “I chose to learn about trade policy, natural resource conservation policy, working in natural disasters, social media communication and livestock trends. Each provided specific, actionable examples that would benefit young farmers, ag professionals and educational experts.
“What ultimately came out was a mix of learning, connecting and inspiration that made me feel more confident about both the future of our industry and my place in it. If you have the opportunity, I wholeheartedly recommend attending YF&R or another Young Farmer event.”
How to Apply
Interested members should apply online by Dec. 1.
Contact MFB Young Farmer Manager Katie Eisenberger with any questions; additional information can be found online.
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