Programs

Agricultural Scholars

Where Tomorrow’s Agricultural Economists Gain Real-World Experience

The future of agriculture depends on leaders who can connect research with real-world decision-making.

The Agricultural Scholars Program, offered in partnership with the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS), helps graduate students build the knowledge, relationships, and professional experience needed to become the next generation of agricultural economists and policy leaders.

Through mentorship, national conferences, and immersive learning experiences, Scholars gain a deeper understanding of how research influences agriculture beyond the classroom.

A fully funded, 12-month professional development experience for graduate students in agricultural economics and related applied sciences.

Our Supporters

USDA

Program Overview

Where Research Meets Real-World Agriculture

Graduate school builds deep expertise. The Agricultural Scholars Program helps participants understand how that expertise shapes the future of food and agriculture.

Offered in collaboration with the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS), this fully funded, 12-month professional development program provides firsthand exposure to agricultural economics, policy, commodity markets, agricultural finance, and public decision-making.

Each Scholar is paired with an experienced ERS economist for year-long mentorship while participating in national conferences, Farm Foundation leadership experiences, and behind-the-scenes visits with government agencies, agribusinesses, and commodity organizations.

The result is practical experience that prepares participants to translate research into meaningful impact throughout their careers.

  • Learn From Leading Experts

    Work alongside USDA economists, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders who are shaping agriculture today.

  • Experience Agriculture Beyond the Classroom

    Participate in national conferences, policy discussions, and immersive learning experiences that connect research with practice.

  • Build a Professional Network

    Develop lasting relationships with mentors, fellow Scholars, and leaders across food and agriculture.

Why It Matters

Great Research Has Greater Impact When It's Connected to Practice

Agriculture depends on strong research to address complex challenges—from food security and trade to productivity, sustainability, and rural prosperity.

But research creates the greatest value when the people behind it understand how ideas become policy, influence business decisions, and support farmers.

The Agricultural Scholars Program helps bridge the gap between academic research and real-world agriculture by connecting emerging economists with experienced professionals, national leaders, and the institutions shaping the future of the industry.

Participants leave with stronger professional networks, broader perspectives, and the confidence to turn research into action.

  • Preparing the Next Generation of Agricultural Thought Leaders

    Tomorrow's agricultural economists won't simply analyze data. They'll help inform decisions that affect producers, businesses, policymakers, and communities across the food system.

  • Mission Connection

    The Agricultural Scholars Program reflects Farm Foundation's commitment to developing future leaders by connecting emerging experts with the people, perspectives, and experiences that strengthen agriculture.

Who It's For

Is This Program Right for You?

The Agricultural Scholars Program is designed for graduate students who want to expand their understanding of agriculture beyond academic research while preparing for careers in agricultural economics, policy, and applied research.

  • Audience Profile

    • Graduate students studying agricultural economics
    • Graduate students in related applied agricultural sciences
    • Emerging researchers interested in agricultural policy
    • Future economists and public sector leaders

  • Eligibility

    • U.S. citizen
    • Valid U.S. Passport or proper Canadian entry visa for summer 2027 travel
    • Enrolled in a graduate program at an accredited North American university
    • Studying agricultural economics or a related applied discipline
    • Nominated by a college dean or department head

  • Ideal Scholar

    • Curious about how research influences decision-making
    • Interested in agricultural policy and economics
    • Strong communicator and collaborator
    • Excited to learn from leaders across agriculture
    • Looking to build a career with real-world impact

The Leadership Journey

What to Expect

The Agricultural Scholars Program combines mentorship, experiential learning, national conferences, and professional networking into a year-long experience that broadens each Scholar's understanding of agriculture beyond academic research.

The Leadership Journey

  1. 1

    Connect

    Meet your cohort, begin working with your USDA ERS mentor, and explore the issues shaping agriculture today.

  2. 2

    Experience

    Attend premier agricultural events, including Farm Foundation's Round Table, the USDA Agricultural Outlook Forum, the AAEA Annual Meeting, Farm Foundation Forums, and a Washington, D.C. capstone experience.

  3. 3

    Showcase

    Complete and present a capstone project to USDA ERS economists while building relationships that support your future career.

Learning Experiences

  • Agricultural economics and policy

  • Commodity market analysis

  • Agricultural finance

  • Professional research communication

  • Cross-sector collaboration

  • Career development and networking

Scholars Leave With

  • One-on-one mentorship from a USDA ERS economist that may inform thesis and doctorate research
  • Practical understanding of agricultural policy and decision-making
  • Expanded professional network across agriculture
  • Greater confidence communicating research
  • Experience connecting academic work with real-world application

Testimonials

Leadership That Changes Lives

Every Farm Foundation leadership program is built around people—their experiences, their growth, and the impact they create long after the program ends.

The networking opportunities provided by the program are unmatched by any other extracurricular or professional experience I have been involved in. Having the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and academics across multiple forums throughout the year provided unique perspectives on the agricultural sector.

Anonymous

Ag Scholar

I was able to engage with individuals working in academia, industry, government, and production agriculture in settings that encouraged both structured discussion and informal conversation. This exposure helped me better understand how different parts of the agricultural system connect and how decisions are made across research, policy, and practice. It also helped me develop confidence in discussing my interests and research with people at different stages of their careers and in different roles.

Anonymous

Ag Scholar

Growing up in the West, I had limited exposure to agriculture in other parts of the United States. The Ag Scholars program expanded my understanding of agricultural policy and production systems relevant to other parts of the United States. I was able to engage with policy makers and stakeholders gaining connections that will benefit me throughout my career.

Anonymous

Ag Scholar

The experience strengthened my confidence as an emerging leader in agriculture. Being part of a cohort of motivated peers and mentors created a sense of community and encouragement that has stayed with me well beyond the program. Overall, the Agricultural Scholars Program played a meaningful role in shaping how I approach my work, my career decisions, and my role in the broader agricultural community.

Anonymous

Ag Scholar

The Program contributed significantly to my personal, academic, and professional development. Personally and professionally, the program helped me become much more comfortable initiating conversations and networking with people I had never met before. The structure of the events encouraged open dialogue, which allowed me to learn from others’ experiences and perspectives across the agricultural sector. Academically, the program was extremely valuable because it exposed me to a wide range of audiences, including academics, industry professionals, producers, and policymakers.

Anonymous

Ag Scholar

The networking opportunities provided are unmatched by any other extracurricular or professional experience I have been involved in. Having the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and academics across multiple forums throughout the year provided unique perspectives on the agricultural sector.

Anonymous

Ag Scholar

My mentor helped me connect with multiple professionals across multiple agencies. This was a great way to understand the work done by the various agencies and make connections relevant to my career. My mentor also provided valuable insights as I was preparing to defend my thesis.

Anonymous

Ag Scholar

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who can apply?

    Graduate students in agricultural economics or related applied sciences who meet the eligibility requirements and are nominated by a college dean or department head.

  • How many Scholars are selected each year?

    Up to five graduate students are selected annually, but we are hopeful this will increase in the future.

  • How are Scholars selected?

    Students must be nominated by their college dean or department head before completing the application process. Leadership at USDA ERS makes cohort selections.

  • Is there a cost to participate?

    No. The Agricultural Scholars Program is fully funded.

  • What experiences are included?

    Scholars participate in mentorship, national conferences, Farm Foundation events, professional networking, and a capstone experience in Washington, D.C.

  • Which conferences are included?
    • Farm Foundation Round Table – Jan. 11–15, 2026 (Jacksonville, FL)
    •  USDA Agricultural Outlook Forum – Feb. 2027 (Washington, D.C.)
    • Farm Foundation Round Table – June 22–25, 2026 (Toronto, CAN)
    •  AAEA Annual Meeting – July 24–28, 2027 (Philadelphia, PA)
    •  WASDE/Capstone Trip (Washington, D.C.) – Oct. 2027, including USDA, Capitol Hill, agribusiness, and commodity group visits

Contact

Get In Touch

Chrissie Edgeworth
Chrissie Edgeworth Program manager
[javascript protected email address]

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