NC Ag Allies Conference: Cultivating the Future of North Carolina Agriculture

Agriculture is woven into the fabric of North Carolina’s economy.

With an annual economic contribution of $111 billion and jobs supporting 16% of the state’s workforce, the industry remains a driving force in communities across the state.

That strength does not mean standing still.

Farmers, food manufacturers, agribusiness leaders, and policymakers are navigating a changing landscape shaped by workforce needs, new technology, market pressures, and evolving state and federal regulations. The NC Chamber’s Ag Allies Conference brings these voices together to discuss what lies ahead and how North Carolina can keep its agriculture and agribusiness sectors growing.

Scheduled for Friday, October 30, the conference will feature a full day of practical conversations, economic insight, and opportunities to connect with leaders from throughout the food and agriculture supply chain.

A Day Focused on What Moves Agriculture Forward

The agenda begins with an agricultural economic outlook from Bart Fischer, Ph.D., of Texas A&M University’s Agricultural and Food Policy Center. Attendees will also hear from industry leaders on food manufacturing in North Carolina, including representatives from Garner Foods and Alamance Foods.

Additional sessions will cover:

• The future of American food production
• The role of NC Ag Leads in supporting the state’s agriculture sector
• Changes facing the American meat industry
• The opportunities and challenges affecting agricultural businesses across North Carolina

From the farm gate to the processing line, agriculture depends on strong partnerships, sound planning, and a clear understanding of the road ahead. This conference provides a timely setting for those conversations.

Register to Join the Conversation

Whether you work directly in agriculture, support food production and manufacturing, or serve businesses connected to the industry, the NC Ag Allies Conference offers a valuable chance to hear from knowledgeable speakers and build relationships across the sector.

Registration, breakfast, and networking begin at 8:00 a.m., followed by programming throughout the day.

Ward and Smith is sponsoring this year’s NC Ag Allies Conference and looks forward to supporting the people and businesses who help keep North Carolina agriculture moving forward. Register today to take part in this important gathering for one of the state’s most vital industries.