POET Commits $20,000 to Support South Dakota Ag Foundation and the Future of Agriculture

PIERRE, S.D. (January 12, 2026) — The South Dakota Ag Foundation is proud to announce a $20,000 commitment from POET, the world’s largest producer of biofuels and a long-time supporter of the Foundation and its mission, to enrich agriculture for generations to come. The commitment includes $10,000 in 2025 and $10,000 in 2026, reinforcing POET’s ongoing dedication to South Dakota agriculture and the people who make it possible.

POET’s mission — to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible — aligns closely with the South Dakota Ag Foundation’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and generational success in agriculture. Central to POET’s support is the Foundation’s Keep Farmers Farming program, which works directly with farmers and ranchers to support farm transitions, leadership development, and long-term viability of family operations.

“Agriculture is at the foundation of everything we do at POET,” said Andy Vickers, Agronomy Manager for POET Research and a South Dakota Ag Foundation board member. “Supporting the South Dakota Ag Foundation and its programs like Keep Farmers Farming is one way we help strengthen resources, education, and opportunities that farmers and farm families rely on. We’re proud to help create a brighter future for generations to come.”

The Keep Farmers Farming program helps ensure that farm and ranch operations can successfully transition across generations, keeping land, knowledge, and opportunity rooted in South Dakota communities.

“POET has been an incredible partner to the Foundation for many years,” said Kim Vanneman, Vice-Chair of the South Dakota Ag Foundation. “Their continued investment demonstrates a deep understanding that the future of agriculture depends on strong farm families, thoughtful transitions, and a shared commitment to innovation. We are grateful for POET’s leadership and belief in the work we’re doing through Keep Farmers Farming and beyond.”

The South Dakota Ag Foundation works alongside farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, and community partners to strengthen agriculture through education, leadership development, and programs that support long-term success in rural South Dakota.

For more information about the South Dakota Ag Foundation or the Keep Farmers Farming program, visit www.sdagfoundation.org.