In a significant step forward for agricultural finance, American AgCredit (AAC), Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica), Frontier Farm Credit, AgCountry Farm Credit Services, Farm Credit East and CoBank, announce the launch of a new program with Plug and Play called Seed4Growth. The innovation program aims to collaborate across the ag and finance sectors, keeping industry leaders up to date on the rapidly evolving landscape, while showcasing the most cutting-edge digital solutions.

“We are thrilled to expand our partnership and launch the Seed4Growth program. This initiative will drive innovation and collaboration, ultimately benefiting the agricultural community,” said Mark Jensen, Chief Executive Offices, AgCountry, FCSAmerica, Frontier Farm Credit.

Krista McDonald, EVP Chief Strategy Officer, AgCountry, FCSAmerica, Frontier Farm Credit added, “We are excited to be a part of the Seed4Growth program that is evolving the Farm Credit innovation ecosystem in a collaborative way. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to working together to become more future-focused.”

Expanding the Partnership

The Farm Credit organizations, part of the nationwide Farm Credit System, first approached Plug and Play for support in navigating the dynamic startup ecosystem – looking for technology solutions and resources that help support the evolving agricultural lending and finance marketplace in support of farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses.

AAC and FCSAmerica began working with Plug and Play programs in 2023. They welcomed CoBank to the relationship in 2024. An additional association, Farm Credit East, joins the collaboration with the launch of the Seed4Growth Program.

Impact

The expanded relationships have already yielded significant successes and benefits. Representatives from AAC, FCSAmerica, and CoBank have expressed their enthusiasm about the expanded partnership and its potential impact on the agricultural finance industry.

“The collaboration provides significant insights into technological disruptions, helping us gain direct insights into the investment and commercialization of emerging technology. Plug and Play facilitates the comprehension of next-generation advancements in technology and innovation that are critical to the core business of Farm Credit organizations. The introduction of Seed4Growth will drive a better future for the entire System,” said Alp Basol, Head of Innovation and Center of Excellence at CoBank.

“Working with Plug and Play has been eye-opening for our organization. The expertise offered in tech scouting and the ability to connect us with external innovators who operate at the speed of disruptors has meaningfully informed our innovation journey. Plug and Play’s proactive approach and deep industry insights have been instrumental in enhancing our strategic vision,” said Mike Lancaster, Chief Customer Value Officer at American AgCredit.

The Seed4Growth program is designed to further explore what’s possible in Fintech and Agtech, ultimately benefiting farmers, ranchers, and the global food supply. By bringing others into the fold, the program promises to make an even greater impact on the agricultural community through advanced financial solutions and cutting-edge technologies.