Call for Proposals: 2027 Minnesota Organic Conference

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is seeking session proposals and speaker recommendations for the 2027 Minnesota Organic Conference, scheduled for January 7-8, 2027, at the River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud, MN. The event connects organic producers with national researchers and educators to discuss farming innovations and available resources, according to an MDA announcement.

How can speakers apply for the 2027 Minnesota Organic Conference?

Conference organizers are accepting proposals for keynote speakers, panel discussions, and breakout sessions through June 29. Applicants must submit their suggestions via a simple online form. A planning committee will then review all entries to select the final lineup of sessions.

Did You Know? The Minnesota Organic Conference has served as a connection point between farmers and leading organic practitioners, researchers, and educators for more than two decades.

Why is the Minnesota Organic Conference significant for the state’s business sector?

The event serves as a primary hub for Minnesota’s organic agriculture sector, providing producers of all sizes with access to emerging research and innovative farming practices. MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen stated that the conference allows farmers to learn from leading researchers and one another.

Petersen credited the current state of the organic farming community to investments made under the Walz-Flanagan administration. These investments support the infrastructure and knowledge sharing necessary for organic operations to scale and evolve.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the integration of academic research with on-the-ground practitioner experience is critical for the economic viability of organic farming. By incentivizing speaker participation through honorariums and travel reimbursement, the MDA likely aims to ensure a diverse range of operational perspectives are represented.

What benefits are provided to selected presenters?

The MDA offers specific incentives to those chosen to present. Selected speakers receive complimentary registration for the conference and reimbursement for travel expenses. Additionally, the agency provides a speaking honorarium for farmers and other individuals who may require it.

15th Annual Minnesota Organic Conference Takes Over St. Cloud

What happens next in the conference timeline?

The MDA is expected to release information regarding conference sponsorship and trade show exhibitions in late August. A full conference program may be published later this fall. Those seeking updates on programs or exhibitor opportunities can sign up through the agency’s registration system.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where will the 2027 Minnesota Organic Conference take place?
The conference is set for January 7-8, 2027, at the River’s Edge Convention Center in St. Cloud, MN.

What is the deadline for submitting speaker and session proposals?
Submissions will be accepted through June 29 via an online form.

Who is eligible to submit proposals for the event?
The MDA invites farmers, educators, researchers, and advocates to submit proposals.

How might the integration of new research impact the scale of organic operations in your region?