Building Bridges at Richmond's Premier Agribusiness Event

Members of the Minority & Veteran Farmers of the Piedmont attended the Virginia Agribusiness Council's 54th Annual Legislative Appreciation Banquet on January 15, 2026, at The Shed at Main Street Station in Richmond. More than 1,000 agriculture and forestry leaders packed the sold-out event, making it one of the biggest gatherings of Virginia's farming community all year.

Governor-Elect Abigail Spanberger and other state leaders were there, giving farmers a chance to talk directly with the people who make decisions about farm funding, roads, equipment, and where farmers can sell their products. For minority, veteran, and small-scale farmers, these conversations can make a real difference. Meeting face-to-face with policymakers and industry leaders helps farmers get the support and resources they need to keep their operations running.

MVFP was privileged to have 16 members in attendance, including representatives from the farming communities of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, and Nelson Counties.

The Virginia Agribusiness Council hosts this banquet every year as part of their work supporting Virginia farmers. Agriculture and forestry are Virginia's largest private industries, and the Virginia Agribusiness Council represents these sectors at both the state and federal level. They work to connect farmers with legislators, advocate for policies that support agricultural growth, and run programs that strengthen farming across the Commonwealth. Events like this brings advocates together to support Virginia's farming future.