New Dakotafest seminar to help farmers build profit in a tough economy
Mitchell, SD — As farmers face tightening margins, rising input costs, and ongoing market uncertainty, a new seminar at this year’s Dakotafest will deliver practical tools to help producers strengthen their operations and plan ahead.
Titled “2027 Profit Roadmap: Practical Tools for Navigating Tight Farm Economics,” the interactive session will take place from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 18 and Thursday, Aug. 20 in the Music & Entertainment Tent at Dakotafest.
The seminar brings together agricultural economists, financial experts, marketing specialists, and alternative crop advocates to provide actionable strategies and real-time insights farmers can apply immediately.
Speakers include economists, accountants, and industry specialists from organizations such as the American Farm Bureau Federation, StoneX, and North Dakota State University, offering expertise in farm policy, commodity markets, and financial management.
“Farmers are navigating one of the most complex economic environments we’ve seen in decades,” said Faith Parum, PhD, economist with the American Farm Bureau Federation. “This seminar is designed to help producers cut through that uncertainty and make confident, informed decisions now for next year and future seasons.”
The program will cover key topics affecting profitability, including the impact of policy and political shifts, lessons from past farm downturns, and strategies to better evaluate financial performance.
Farmers will gain practical guidance on:
- Assessing their operation using cash receipts and tax returns
- Managing production costs and input decisions
- Preparing for lender conversations and securing operating capital
- Strengthening grain marketing strategies to protect revenue
In addition, the session will address alternative crops that help farmers explore options beyond corn and soybeans that offer lower input costs and yield potential with profitable returns.
Pre-registration is encouraged for access to seminar materials and giveaways, though walk-up participation will be available. For more information, attendees are encouraged to visit dakotafest.com/profit-roadmap.
Dakotafest runs from Aug. 18-20, 2026. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of this session to improve decision-making and prepare for the 2027 season. The Profit Roadmap seminar is free with Dakotafest admission, and attendees can reserve a seat when purchasing their ticket at Dakotafest.com.
-Dakotafest
