Ag Innovation Forum 2026
Thursday, February 26, 2026
Kauffman Foundation Conference Center | Kansas City, Missouri
8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Join the Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City and the National Institute for Animal Agriculture for the 2026 Ag Innovation Forum, a full-day event spotlighting the people and ideas shaping the future of agriculture.
This year’s program will feature a keynote on the global dynamics of agricultural innovation and three expert panels. Save the date and plan to be part of this dynamic exchange among leaders, innovators, and investors driving the next wave of ag innovation.
Keynote Speakers:
Elizabeth Fastiggi, Chief Product Officer, Idealyst Innovation - “From Farm to Boardroom: How AI Is Reshaping Work and Collaboration”
Alfonso Clavijo, Director, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF)
Panel: The State of American Agricultural Research: Maintaining Competitiveness and Public Investment
Moderated by: Zach Helder, Vice President, Agricultural Business Council of Kansas City
Dan Northrup, Principal, Science & Technology, Galvanize
Marshall Stewart, Executive Vice President for External Engagement, Kansas State University
Alfonso Clavijo, Director, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF)
Panel: Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture
Moderated by: Chelsea Good, Founder & CEO, Good & Associates
Lukas Koch, CEO, Kelly Hill’s Unmanned Systems
Elizabeth Fastiggi, Chief Product Officer, Idealist Innovation
Panel: Ag Innovation Investment & Venture Outlook
Moderated by: Chelsea Good, Founder & CEO, Good & Associates
Kevin Lockett, Managing Partner, Fulcrum Global Capital
Renée Vassilos, Principal, Banyan Innovation Group
Josh DeMers, Co-Founder and COO, DARO
Program Outline
8:00 AM
Registration & Networking
9:00 AM
Welcoming Remarks
9:15 AM
Opening Keynote
10:00 AM
Networking Break
10:30 AM
Featured Remarks
Panel Discussion
11:45 AM
Lunch Buffet
12:45 PM
Panel Discussions
2:45 PM
Summary Fireside Chat
3:30 PM
Adjourn
Meeting Venue
Kauffman Foundation Conference Center
4801 Rockhill Rd
Kansas City, MO 64110
Parking is free and available on the north side of the building.
Please enter through the right-hand set of doors for the Conference Center.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be submitted by email at least 10 days prior to the scheduled event.
No refunds or credits will be issued within 10 days of the event, including for illness.
Registrations are transferable. Please email us in advance to arrange a substitution.
Accommodations & Special Dietary Needs
If you have questions regarding accessibility or special dietary needs, please email us at least seven days prior to the event.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities are available.
Please contact Erica Venancio by email for more information.
