Deadlines nearing for WIA Demeter award and student scholarships

NEW ORLEANS — Deadlines are approaching for two Women in Agribusiness initiatives that recognize and support women across the ag and food value chain.

Nominations for the WIA Demeter Award of Excellence are due June 22 and applications for the WIA Student Scholarship Program are due July 12.

WIA Demeter Award Of Excellence

The WIA Demeter Award honors three outstanding women in ag each year, notable for their exceptional professional achievements and for advancing opportunities for women in the industry. The trio are honored onstage at the annual Women in Agribusiness Summit in September.

This year, in recognition of 2026 being the International Year of the Woman Farmer as designated by the United Nations, Women in Agribusiness has introduced a fourth award dedicated exclusively to female farmers.

The American Farm Bureau Federation is collaborating with WIA on this special award, assisting in candidate review and recipient selection and participating in the onstage presentation at the summit.

WIA Student Scholarship Program

Now in its 13th year, WIA Student Scholarships have helped more than 450 young women in ag attend the annual Women in Agribusiness Summit, thanks to over $1.4 million in sponsorship support.

Scholarship recipients receive a complimentary three-day summit pass, providing access to critical industry content, networking opportunities and mentorship through sponsor pairings.

They also enjoy exclusive student breakfast, lunch and workshop options, as well access to all conference receptions and special activities.

Visit the WIA website at womeninag.com/initiatives for application details and additional program information.