For over a century, the Farm Business Farm Management (FBFM) program has been a cornerstone of support for Illinois farmers, empowering them to make informed financial and operational decisions. Founded in 1924 with the Pioneer FBFM Association, FBFM has grown to become an integral part of the agricultural community, continually adapting to meet the evolving needs of farm businesses.

 

FBFM operates as a cooperative educational-service initiative where participating farmers, known as cooperators, are at the heart of the program. These cooperators actively shape services and policies by electing representatives to a board of directors. Field staff, typically working with 100–120 cooperators each, deliver the program’s services. These professionals extend research and educational outreach while acting as trusted advisors, helping farmers navigate complex management decisions. With over 30 office locations covering all of Illinois plus an office in Indiana, FBFM staff are valued community leaders connecting with their clients.

 

The personalized support provided by these specialists is central to FBFM’s success. With expertise in agricultural economics, field staff assist farmers in evaluating alternatives, mitigating risks, and making strategic decisions. Their guidance is often cited as the key reason for FBFM’s exceptional membership renewal rate, which consistently exceeds 95%. For cooperators, each year with FBFM represents another chapter in their farming journey, enriched by the program’s invaluable insights and support.

 

On January 1, 2018, FBFM consolidated its local associations into a single statewide entity to streamline services and enhance its impact. Today our Illinois FBFM Association serves about 5,000 farm operators across the state, supported by over 75 dedicated farm business consultants. 

 

FBFM’s enduring commitment was celebrated during 2024 as the organization marked its 100th anniversary. This milestone reflects FBFM’s long-standing role in empowering Illinois farmers to thrive in an ever-changing agricultural landscape. Under the leadership of Scott Newport, a 35-year veteran with FBFM and its newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, the organization is poised to continue its legacy of service well into the future.

 

As agriculture faces new challenges, including rising production costs, market volatility, and environmental pressures, FBFM remains an indispensable resource. Its cooperative model, professional expertise, and deep connection with the farming community ensure its relevance and impact.

 

Here’s to 100 years of supporting Illinois farm businesses—and to the many more yet to come!

 

FBFM operates in collaboration with the University of Illinois’ Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics, the University of Illinois Extension within the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences.

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NAFBAS (National Association of Farm Business Analysis Specialists) and FBFM (Farm Business Farm Management) collaborate to achieve similar goals of supporting farmers with financial analysis, management, and decision-making tools. FBFM operates primarily at the local level, directly serving farmers, NAFBAS functions as a national umbrella organization supporting professionals in farm business management, fostering collaboration, and enhancing the overall quality of services.