SPRINGFIELD, Ill. āĀ The BRANDT Foundation and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are accepting nominations for the third Glen “GB” Brandt Prize for Ag Entrepreneurism, a prize established to honor the memory of Glen “GB” Brandt, a legendary figure in the field of Illinois agriculture. The prize will recognize an Illinois farmer who exemplifies an entrepreneurial spirit and advances innovation through their business practices.
The $10,000 cash prize will be awarded to a nominee who demonstrates a high level of creativity, a passion for agriculture, and a vision to change the future. The recipient may use the prize-money on their farm as they wish. The winner will be announced and recognized at the AgTech Innovation Summit, an annual event produced by the University of Illinois Research Park, on March 7, 2023.
“GB was an extraordinary person who attacked life with optimism and built a global business from very humble roots,” said Rick Brandt, President of The BRANDT Foundation. “We’re looking to help someone who shares GB’s passion for ag, demonstrates a high level of creativity and has a vision to change the future.”
Nominations are being accepted until Feb. 10 for the prize. Eligible nominees include Illinois growers who are linked with the University of Illinois or its affiliates. Examples of affiliations include:
- University of Illinois Alumni
- Conducting field trials or other research with the University
- Working with a University of Illinois Extension office
- A family with a student enrolled at the University of Illinois who is involved in modernizing the family farm
- Involved in the University of Illinois startup ecosystem
- Working with University of Illinois startups as a testbed location for AgTech
- Farming University of Illinois farmland and applying innovative practices or technology
The nomination form is now open and the deadline for submission is Feb. 10, 2023. To nominate yourself or another Illinois grower, please visit https://go.illinois.edu/GlenBrandtAgInnovationPrize.
About theĀ AgTech Innovation Summit
The AgTech Innovation Summit is an interactive conference where participants to learn and share knowledge about the current state of agtech and get a looking into the future through dynamic panels, inspiring keynote presentations, and networking opportunities. It is produced by the University of Illinois Research Park in partnership with the College of ACES and the Office of Corporate Relations. One of the premier AgTech hubs in the nation, Champaign-Urbana is uniquely positioned to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, academics, and industry for learning, networking and advancing this sector.
AboutĀ TheĀ BRANDTĀ Foundation
The BRANDT Foundation was established in 2012 as a philanthropic extension of BRANDT, Inc. The Brandt family has always stood with their communities and as their company grew, so did the opportunities to give back. The BRANDT Foundation offers donations, grants and support to the farms, charities and organizations in the areas where the company does business.
About BRANDT
A leading agricultural company, BRANDT serves growers around the globe. Founded in 1953 by Glen Brandt and his sister Evelyn Brandt Thomas to help Illinois farmers adopt new and profitable technologies, the company has experienced aggressive growth under the leadership of President and CEO Rick Brandt. Innovation, technology and strong customer service are a few of the core beliefs that driveĀ BRANDTĀ today. BRANDTās focus is providing the products and services that give growers the best opportunity for return while building a stronger, healthier and more abundant food supply.
For more information, visit BRANDT on the web at www.brandt.co.
ā AgPR