Missouri Soybeans’ Ag Innovation Showcase puts cutting-edge agricultural technology into the hands of Missouri growers.
For farmers, the seasons mark more than just time: They signal purpose. Spring is for planting, fall for harvesting, winter for decision-making. But summer is a time for growing- not only in the field, but also in knowledge and opportunity. That growth happens through hands-on experience, strategic learning and timely access to tools that move the needle. That’s why the Missouri Soybean Association continues investing in farmers’ bottom lines by connecting them with the latest innovations at the Ag Innovation Showcase.
The showcase was launched in 2022 and has quickly become a vital learning opportunity for producers exploring new technology. With live demonstrations from Greenfield Robotics, AGI and university extension researchers, the event highlights practical tools designed to boost profitability, improve efficiency and reduce waste. Now in its fourth year, the showcase remains committed to making cutting-edge ag technology and current research accessible to Missouri soybean growers.
Creating the Conversation
As agricultural technology evolves at a rapid pace, producers are often faced with a crowded and confusing landscape. Knowing what’s worth adopting – and when- can be a challenge. The Missouri Soybean Association’s Farm for Soy Innovation was built to meet that challenge, serving as a demonstration site that bridges the gap between tech developers and the producers they serve.
“The Farm for Soy Innovation’s mission is to showcase innovative solutions for tomorrow’s soybean farmer,” said Clayton Light, director of conservation agriculture and farm operations. “Through events like the Ag Innovations Showcase, we’re able to fulfill that mission by highlighting the latest ag tech and creating key connections between producers and purveyors.”
In recent years, the showcase has hosted more than 20 emerging technologies – tools that include pesticide systems powered by machine learning, temperature and moisture sensors for grain storage and retrofit seeders that help farmers save time during harvest. These innovations are shown in action, allowing farmers to see how they perform in real-world conditions.
“The Farm for Soy Innovation has shown me a variety of technologies and growing practices that I’ve implemented on my own operation,” said Russell Wolf, MSA board members and Farm for Soy Innovation committee chairman. “From the on-farm research to events like the showcase, I’ve seen the benefit firsthand.”
At the heart of both the Missouri Soybean Association (MSA) and the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) is the goal of improving farmers’ bottom lines. MSA leads through advocacy and membership while MSMC drives demand, research, and education. The Ag Innovation Showcase brings both efforts together- creating a space for networking, fellowship and shared learning. By hosting the event at the Farm for Soy Innovation, producers not only see the technology at work – they can consult with MSA staff and assess how well each innovation fits their operations.
Talking Tech
Innovators from across the country will gather at this year’s showcase to present the latest in agricultural technology. Among this year’s featured exhibitors are Greenfield Robotics and AGI BinManager- tools that reflect the growing power of automation in production agriculture.
Greenfield Robotics will demonstrate one of its autonomous robots powered by artificial intelligence designed to reduce the dependency for chemical weed control. The robot uses advanced vision and navigation to improve in-row weed management – supporting more sustainable practices and reducing input dependency.
AGI BinManager, already in use at the Farm for Soy Innovation, is a precision tool that uses temperature and moisture sensors alongside machine learning to monitor and manage grain storage conditions. This system helps farmers preserve crop quality and maximize returns by automating crucial decisions inside the bin.
Technologies like these offer a glimpse into the future of farming — but the showcase makes that future tangible. Farmers get to see, ask, test and decide before they invest.
“Our goal at the Farm for Soy Innovation is to make innovative technologies readily available to Missouri farmers,” said Light. “By bringing the technology to Columbia, we can demonstrate the latest ag innovations and help farmers make informed decisions.”
Refocus on Research
Technology is a powerful tool — but it only delivers real value when paired with strong, applied research. That’s why this year’s showcase is sharpening its focus on research that strengthens on-farm performance.
University of Missouri soybean breeder Andrew Scaboo will be on site to share the latest findings in trait development, including progress on the gmSNAP-02 trait for soybean cyst nematode resistance. This novel trait provides increased protection — offering soybeans growers a new line of defense. This research was funded by the soybean checkoff and originated at the Farm for Soy Innovation. 
Also featured is Andre Froes de Borja Reis, MU Extension’s state soybean specialist, who will present updates from the variety testing program. This ongoing research helps producers select varieties that align with regional growing conditions — supporting more resilient, efficient soybean systems across the state.
“Research is the first step to innovation in soybean production,” said Blake Barlow, MSA’s director of research and agronomy. “When paired with smart technology, it opens the door to greater efficiency and profitability for Missouri soybean farmers.”
As summer winds down and planning begins for the season ahead, events like the Ag Innovation Showcase give farmers the tools and insight they need to make the most of next year’s opportunities. With science, technology and real-world knowledge on full display, the future of Missouri soybean farming is just a field day away.
Join us Aug. 22 at the Farm for Soy Innovation in Columbia for this year’s Ag Innovation Showcase. For full details on the free event and to register to attend, visit mosoy.org/events.
