For more than 100 years, Farm Business Farm Management (FBFM) has been a cornerstone of support for Illinois farmers, helping them make informed financial and operational decisions. Established in 1924 with the Pioneer FBFM Association, FBFM has grown to become an integral part of the agricultural community, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of farm businesses.

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A Business Model Built Around Farmers

FBFM operates as an educational service organization, placing participating farmers, known as cooperators, at the center of its mission. Cooperators help guide the organization by electing representatives to a board of directors that shapes policies and services.

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FBFM Farm Business Consultants typically work with 100–120 cooperators each, providing research-based insights, educational outreach, and personalized guidance. With 35+ office locations throughout Illinois and two in Indiana, FBFM professionals are deeply rooted in their communities and serve as trusted advisors to the farm businesses they support.

 

Personalized Expertise That Makes a Difference

The individualized support provided by FBFM consultants is the cornerstone to the organization's success. With expertise in agricultural economics and farm management, consultants assist farmers evaluate alternatives, mitigating risks, and make sound strategic decisions. This trusted relationship is reflected in FBFM’s exceptional membership renewal rate, which consistently exceeds 95 percent. For cooperators, each year with FBFM represents another chapter in their farming journey, strengthened by reliable data, professional insight, and dedicated support.

 

A Regional Organization with Local Impact

On January 1, 2018, FBFM consolidated its local associations into a single statewide entity to streamline services and enhance overall impact. Today, FBFM serves approximately 5,000 farm operators across the Midwest, supported by more than 75 dedicated farm business consultants. 

 

Celebrating 100 Years—and Looking Ahead

In 2024, FBFM proudly celebrated its 100th anniversary, marking a century of service to Illinois agriculture. This milestone reflects the organization's enduring commitment to helping farm businesses succeed. Under the leadership of Scott Newport, a 35-year FBFM veteran and the organization's Chief Executive Officer, FBFM is well positioned to continue its legacy well into the future.

 

Meeting Today's Agricultural Challenges

As farmers navigate rising production costs, market volatility, and environmental pressures, FBFM remains an indispensable resource. Its cooperative structure, professional expertise, and strong ties to the agricultural community ensure the program continues to deliver meaningful value to farm businesses.

 

Here’s to more than 100 years of supporting agriculture—and to the many years still ahead.

 

Partnerships and Professional Collaboration

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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FBFM also works closely with the National Association of Farm Business Analysis Specialists (NAFBAS), a national organization that supports farm business management professionals. While FBFM focuses on direct, local services to farmers, NAFBAS serves as an umbrella organization that promotes collaboration, professional development, and excellence in farm business analysis nationwide.