John Deere Foundation Pledges Nearly $4 million to National FFA Organization

The John Deere Foundation has pledged close to $4 million in grants to the National FFA Organization (FFA), demonstrating its commitment to fostering the next wave of agricultural leaders. Based in Moline, Illinois, the Foundation's multi-year support underscores its dedication to advancing FFA's educational outreach and mission.

This investment, spanning three years and totaling $3.9 million, reflects John Deere's philanthropic tradition dating back to its establishment in 1948, and it extends Deere's nearly eight-decade partnership with FFA.

Recognizing FFA's pivotal role in nurturing future leaders in agricultural science, business, and technology, the John Deere Foundation's unrestricted funding will facilitate access to educational resources and programs. By investing in FFA's vision of cultivating the next generation of changemakers, the Foundation aims to contribute to the personal and professional growth of aspiring leaders who will shape the future of agriculture and beyond.

“With shared values to prepare future generations for the challenges of feeding, clothing, and fueling a growing global population, the John Deere Foundation supports the FFA mission to help the next generation rise up to tackle global challenges,” said Mara Downing, President, John Deere Foundation and Vice President, Global Brand and Communications at John Deere. “The John Deere Foundation will continue to invest in organizations like FFA that create meaningful, measurable, and long-lasting impact on the lives of others and provide them with the resources to help them get there.”

“We are incredibly grateful for John Deere’s continued support and longstanding partnership,” said Molly Ball, president of the National FFA Foundation and chief marketing officer of the National FFA Organization. “By making an unrestricted, multi-year gift, John Deere is able to have the greatest impact on FFA members. This support truly helps us work toward our mission of preparing members for premier leadership, personal growth and career success.”