A John Deere Publication

A young person in a blue jacket and yellow hat stands in a field, holding a shovel.

Together, John Deere and FFA are shaping a legacy of excellence in the farming community and beyond.

Specialty/Niche January 01, 2025

FFA and John Deere

Cultivating tomorrow's agricultural leaders.

The iconic blue jackets evoke a sense of nostalgia for many, symbolizing cherished memories and youthful experiences in agricultural education.

Nearly a hundred years ago, in 1928, the Future Farmers of America (FFA) organization was established in Kansas City, Mo. The legacy continues today. FFA's mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

John Deere gave their first gift to FFA in the middle of World War II. The collaboration continues with John Deere being the longest corporate sponsor.

In March of 2024, the John Deere Foundation announced a three-year grant totaling $3.9 million to the National FFA Organization. The investment builds on the Foundation's legacy of philanthropy since its founding in 1948, showcasing John Deere's continued commitment to serving those who live, work, and learn within the communities that John Deere serves and farmers around the world. The grants will provide access to resources and educational programs to students interested in exploring a broad range of agricultural career pathways and leadership opportunities.

"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," says Mara Downing, President, John Deere Foundation and Vice President, Global Brand and Communications at John Deere.

The partnership runs deep. Through ongoing support and collaboration, John Deere and FFA will continue to work hand in hand to cultivate a brighter future for agriculture—fostering innovation, education, and sustainable practices. ‡