2026 is the International Year of the Woman Farmer
In 2024, the United Nations General Assembly designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026). Led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), this global initiative recognizes the essential contributions of women across agriculture while raising awareness of the challenges many continue to face. The International Year encourages communities, organizations, and governments to celebrate women farmers, promote their leadership, and support policies and programs that strengthen opportunities for women throughout agriculture.
Women have always been an essential part of agriculture. They manage farms and ranches, raise livestock and crops, operate agricultural businesses, conduct research, educate future generations, and serve as leaders in their communities. Their work sustains families, strengthens rural economies, and helps ensure a safe, abundant, and resilient food system.
In North Carolina, women continue to shape every sector of agriculture, from family farms and agribusinesses to Extension, education, research, healthcare, and public service. The NC Agromedicine Institute is proud to join this international celebration by recognizing the achievements, leadership, and resilience of women across our state’s agricultural communities.
North Carolina’s International Year of the Woman Farmer Celebration at the North Carolina State Fair
Save the Date!
October 19, 2026 | Doors open at 5:00 p.m.
North Carolina State Fair
Hospitality Tent
To celebrate, the NC Agromedicine Institute is hosting North Carolina’s International Year of the Woman Farmer Celebration at the North Carolina State Fair.
This special evening will bring together:
- Women farmers and ranchers
- Agricultural professionals
- Industry leaders
- Researchers and educators
- Students
- Agricultural organizations and community partners
Together, we will celebrate the accomplishments of women in agriculture, highlight their leadership, create networking opportunities, and recognize the vital role women play in the future of North Carolina agriculture. The event will feature networking opportunities, educational exhibits, recognition of women in agriculture, and conversations focused on the future of agriculture and rural communities.
Sponsored By
Become a Sponsor
Your sponsorship helps make this event possible by supporting:
- Event hospitality
- Educational displays
- Recognition materials
- Program activities
- Opportunities for women in agriculture from across North Carolina to participate
Together, we can ensure this celebration is meaningful, welcoming, and accessible for attendees from every corner of the state.
Interested in becoming a sponsor? View our sponsorship opportunities or contact the NC Agromedicine Institute for more information.
Essential
Includes- Name listed in the event program
- Recognition on event sponsor signage
- Recognition during the event slideshow
Visionary
Includes- All Essential Sponsor benefits
- Organization logo in the event program
- Recognition on the North Carolina Agromedicine Institute’s social media
- Recognition on event promotional materials (as production timelines allow)
- Verbal recognition during the program
Legacy
Includes- All Visionary Sponsor benefits
- Premier logo placement on event signage and promotional materials
- Recognition as a Legacy Sponsor during the welcome remarks
- Opportunity to display organizational materials at the event
- Reserved table at the event