March 12, 2026 – Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) announced a new partnership with American Farmland Trust aimed at supporting farmers across six Midwestern states through technical assistance, financial support, and resources focused on long-term farm resilience.
The initiative includes a $500,000 investment from ADM Cares and is part of the company’s broader Farm Forward Initiative, which focuses on strengthening the economic and operational sustainability of American farms.
Through the partnership, hundreds of farmers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky and Missouri will have access to technical assistance for succession planning, connections to production resources and peer networks, and grant funding designed to support productivity, market access and farmer well-being.
Gary McGuigan, senior vice president and president of North America Ag Services & Oilseeds and Global Trade for ADM, said the program is intended to provide farmers with practical support as they navigate ongoing changes in the agricultural industry.
“The Farm Forward Initiative reflects our continued commitment to working alongside American farmers and strengthening America’s farm economy,” McGuigan said. “By partnering with trusted organizations like American Farmland Trust, we’re offering American farmers access to the tools, resources and support they need to strengthen their businesses, care for their land, and sustain their families.”
The partnership comes as farmers face a range of challenges including shifting market demands, evolving trade policy, technological changes and economic uncertainty. According to ADM, 315 family farms filed for bankruptcy last year, a 46% increase from 2024.
American Farmland Trust will oversee on-the-ground engagement with participating farmers, providing assistance tailored to local conditions and delivered through networks focused on farm viability and land stewardship.
John Piotti, president and CEO of American Farmland Trust, said the effort will expand support services available to farmers while helping prepare the next generation of agricultural producers.
“Farm resilience starts with strong planning, strong networks and strong communities,” Piotti said. “Through this partnership, we’re building on our work to advance soil health and help farmers invest in their future by providing practical resources, direct financial assistance, peer connections and expanded access to succession planning support.”
The initiative is expected to begin engaging farmers in the six-state region as the partnership rolls out this year.
