The 2025 Seed Business Management Spring Webinar Series, sponsored by the Graduate Program in Seed Technology and Business (STB), wrapped up this week. The series drew strong participation from students, professionals, and seed science enthusiasts from across the world.
Week 1: Navigating Federal Policy and Global Trade [LINK]
The series kicked off May 7 with Janae Brady and Samuel Crowell of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), who unpacked how federal policy shifts and international trade regulations are affecting the seed industry. From staffing challenges at the USDA to complex international seed movement, the presenters emphasized that regulatory clarity and efficient policy frameworks are critical for seed innovation. Crowell highlighted new tariffs as something to watch when thinking about seed imports, while Brady pointed to ASTA’s ongoing advocacy and leadership summits as essential tools to address these challenges head-on.
Week 2: Leading Innovation at the Startup Level [LINK]
On May 14, the spotlight shifted to entrepreneurship, featuring Dr. Keri Carstens of Jord BioScience and Diana Horvath of 2Blades. Moderated by STB Program Chair Dr. Gary Munkvold, the session explored how startups are filling innovation gaps in agricultural biotechnology. From disease-resistant traits to custom microbial technologies, both leaders shared their paths from science to startup and underscored the importance of agility, partnership, and communication in advancing seed solutions. “You have 20 seconds—make it count,” said Carstens, distilling a key lesson on pitching science in the business world.
Week 3: Sustainability and Regenerative Agriculture [LINK]
Sustainability took center stage on May 21 as Scott Raubenstine (Perdue AgriBusiness) and Han Chen (ZeaKal) introduced a vertically integrated model of regenerative agriculture and carbon-smart soybeans. With innovations like ZeaKal’s PhotoSeed technology and Perdue’s traceable supply chain, the speakers emphasized that sustainable ag requires market incentives, collaboration, and bold thinking. “Sustainability is a team sport,” Raubenstine reminded viewers, outlining innovations in breeding and better ag practices can shape the food system of the future.
Week 4: Market Outlook for 2025 and Beyond [LINK]
The series concluded with Dr. Chad Hart on May 28, who delivered an economic forecast highlighting tight margins, shifting acreage, and intense global competition. Despite record yields and expanding corn acreage, Hart noted persistent downward price pressure, complicated further by trade volatility. While specialty crops and niche markets offer promise, the path forward, Hart said, depends on expanding global demand and strategic adaptation.
Watch On Demand and What’s Next [LINK]
Missed a session or want to revisit the insights? Most of the webinars in the STB Spring Series are available to watch. Just register for our webinar series at seedgrad.iastate.edu and we will email you the recordings!
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a student new to the seed industry, these discussions offer valuable perspectives to keep you informed and engaged. Looking ahead, a second free STB webinar series is planned for November and will focus on topics in Seed Science and Technology. Also, stay tuned—registration opens soon for the popular Seed Technology and Business Short Course, happening November 19–21, 2025, on the Iowa State University campus.