Landus and LANDWERX announce strategic shift toward independent innovation

Landus, Iowa's largest agricultural cooperative, announces that LANDWERX, a first-of-its-kind agricultural innovation hub, will now operate independently. This strategic shift allows both organizations to hone their innovative efforts by enabling LANDWERX to scale nationally and engage a broader range of partners, while Landus continues to focus on directly advancing solutions for Iowa farmers.

Since launching in 2023, Landus has played a central role in establishing LANDWERX's early success. Through coordinated pilot programs and partnerships with the cooperative, LANDWERX developed and tested solutions that directly addressed challenges faced by Iowa farmers.

Innovation Connector: This physical space, most recently located in the Landus corporate office in Des Moines, Iowa, was designed to foster collaboration and innovation in agriculture by bringing together farmers, technology companies, and new audiences. It served as a hub for showcasing cutting-edge agricultural technology and facilitating discussions about the future of farming.

SkyScout: This aerial scouting program uses drone technology and advanced imaging to deliver real-time insights into crop health and field conditions. By identifying issues early and enabling more precise interventions, it helps optimize in-season decision-making.

Landus remains committed to driving farmer-led innovation by working directly with its more than 5,000 farmer-owners to identify emerging needs and deliver practical solutions. Its Innovation Connector in Des Moines will continue to serve as a hub for cross-sector collaboration, welcoming farmer-owners, students, legislators, and industry partners to shape the future of agriculture.

LANDWERX is ready to accelerate as a standalone organization, bringing national focus and cross-industry collaboration to one of the most urgent issues of our time: the resiliency and security of our food system. Agricultural technology plays a pivotal role in strengthening national security by ensuring food security, economic stability, and resilience against global threats. As climate change, population growth, and geopolitical tensions strain global food systems, LANDWERX will serve as a platform to develop and implement innovative agricultural solutions that are essential to safeguarding our nation's future.

Landus and LANDWERX remain aligned in mission and values, collaborating where shared goals intersect to create a more secure, sustainable, and farmer-focused agricultural future.