National Women in Agriculture Study Highlights Leadership Barriers and Opportunities
The American Farm Bureau Federation's ACE summit unveiled a pilot study on women in agriculture, revealing key areas where women seek support, including leadership development, financial planning, and skills training. Conducted by the Hive Research Collective, the study surveyed 4,396 women and identified significant barriers to leadership roles, such as time constraints and caregiving responsibilities. The study found that while 86% of respondents are interested in leadership, many younger women feel excluded from what they perceive as an 'insiders' club.' Financial challenges were also highlighted, with 85% supporting targeted economic incentives. The summit, attended by 500 participants, emphasized the need for inclusive leadership spaces and recognized the contributions of women in agriculture.