March 19th, 2025
MANKATO — GreenSeam is proud to announce the release of the highly anticipated 2025 State of Ag Report. Now in its sixth year, the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the food and agriculture industry across the state of Minnesota.
The report, developed in collaboration with Minnesota State University, Mankato, aggregates insights from the annual GreenSeam State of Ag Survey and focus groups, capturing the perspectives of businesses, organizations, and industry leaders across Minnesota. As a key resource for policymakers, industry professionals, and community leaders, the 2025 State of Ag Report aims to drive informed decision-making and foster a thriving agricultural sector in Minnesota and beyond.
“With accurate and comprehensive data, we can make more informed decisions that drive progress. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who shared their insights through the survey and focus groups. Their input has been transformed into a valuable resource that helps businesses across the food and agriculture supply chain benchmark their progress and equips policymakers with critical information to support economic growth in our communities.” said Sam Ziegler, President of GreenSeam.
Key highlights of the 2025 report include:
- Workforce Development: Hiring expectations have stabilized, with most businesses maintaining staffing levels. However, attracting and retaining skilled workers remains a challenge. Businesses are increasing engagement with K-12 students, attending career fairs, and offering internships to address workforce challenges.
- Economic Pressure and Rising Costs: Input prices, wages, and tax burdens were frequently cited as barriers to success. Many businesses are taking a cautious approach to expansion, balancing the need with financial constraints
- Regulatory Concerns and Policy Impact: Respondents had mixed reactions to legislative changes, with some seeing benefits and others citing increased complexity. Environmental policies, labor laws, and financial regulations continue to shape business strategies, with concerns over excessive paperwork burdens and compliance costs.
GreenSeam encourages businesses, policymakers, and community leaders to utilize this report as a tool for strategic planning and economic development. The full 2025 State of Ag Report is now available online at www.greenseam.org/stateofag.
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About GreenSeam
GreenSeam is an economic development organization for food and agriculture in southern MN and northern IA on a mission to elevate this region as the world-class food and agribusiness epicenter. Its work is guided by four focus areas: business attraction & creation, business retention & expansion, talent development & retention, and regional branding & promotion. As a community brand, GreenSeam’s work is made possible by its business and community investors and committee volunteers with a passion to see the food and ag industry continue to prosper and fuel communities.