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State Meeting

Veterans IN Farming

Indiana State Meeting 2026

March 28, 2026

Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel
Indianapolis, Indiana

Welcome Gathering – Friday, March 27

Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel (Bar Area)

If you're arriving the evening before the Veterans IN Farming State Meeting, we invite you to join us for a casual Welcome Gathering.

This is a relaxed, come-and-go opportunity to connect with fellow veteran farmers, catch up with friends, and meet others attending the meeting.

Light appetizers will be provided, and the hotel bar will offer a cash bar.

There is no formal program—just a chance to visit, connect, and settle in before the day ahead.

No registration required—just stop by.

About the State Meeting

The Veterans IN Farming Indiana State Meeting is a full-day, in-person gathering bringing together veteran farmers, first responders, homesteaders, beginning farmers, and experienced producers from across Indiana and the Midwest.

Now in its third year, the State Meeting is designed to support attendees at every stage of their agricultural journey—from those just getting started to long-time farmers looking to expand, diversify, or strengthen their operations.

This year, we are honored to welcome Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb, joining us in support of veteran farmers and the future of agriculture in Indiana.

The day will feature a mix of practical education, hands-on sessions, and meaningful networking, along with opportunities to connect directly with agricultural organizations, businesses, and service providers.

Who Should Attend?

Veteran farmers and military families

First responders interested in agriculture or homesteading

Beginning farmers and homesteaders

Established farmers seeking new ideas or diversification

Small-scale, regenerative, and land-limited producers

Agricultural businesses and service providers

Families are welcome.

You do not need to be a veteran to attend. All are welcome.

Registration & Pricing

Veterans and one caregiver: $20 total
(Includes meals)

Standard Registration

Non-Veteran Attendees: $120 per person
(Includes all meals and full conference access)

Children under 16 attend free (please notify us for meal planning)

Vendor & Sponsor Opportunities

Vendor Expo Booth — $50

Sell your products and engage directly with attendees
Includes one lunch meal ticket
Power access available upon request
Location & Accommodations

Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre Hotel
31 West Ohio Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Please utilize this secure direct link for hotel reservations: conference link.

Our discounted room block has now closed. If lodging costs are a barrier—especially for veterans—please don’t let that prevent you from attending. Reach out to us and we will do our best to help connect you with options.

Accommodation costs are the responsibility of the attendee. Parking Garage Max Height 6' 8" for clearance for Valet Parking.

Sponsorship Packages Available!

Interested in sponsoring, tabling, or exhibiting? Have a raffle ticket item to donate?

Email joericker@ateaseorchard.com

Featured Speaker: John Klar — Farmer & Author

John Klar is a hands-on farmer, attorney, and author with decades of experience raising sheep and beef cattle using regenerative, pasture-based systems. Known for his practical, efficient approach to farming, he demonstrates how to build resilient, productive farms while restoring soil health, strengthening local food systems, and supporting small-scale agriculture.

In 2016, John Klar challenged the Vermont Department of Agriculture over restrictive on-farm slaughter laws, advocating for policies that protect small farmers, support consumers, and ensure responsible animal care. This effort reflects his commitment to practical, hands-on solutions that help small farms thrive.

Upcoming Books

John has two upcoming books that explore challenges and opportunities for family farms and food systems:

The Coming Food Crisis
This book examines pressures on family farms and local food production, highlighting strategies for maintaining farm independence, resilient operations, and strong community food systems.

Welcome to the Revolution
Drawing on grassroots experience in agriculture and community organizing, this book explores how farmers and rural communities are creating innovative solutions to strengthen local food systems, health, and resilience.

John’s presentations are designed to provide practical, real-world guidance for veterans, first responders, beginning farmers, and long-time producers looking to thrive on their farms while supporting resilient, local food systems.

Accessibility & Nondiscrimination

Purdue University prohibits discrimination against any member of the University community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran.

If you require accommodations to attend, please contact Emily Kring at ekring@purdue.edu by March 13, 2026.

USDA AgVets Funding Disclaimer

This program is supported by the USDA’s AgVets program, which provides funding to enhance agricultural opportunities for military veterans through hands-on training, education, and career pathways in agriculture.

Media Kit and Sponsorship Info