INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – More than 70,000 FFA members, agricultural educators, industry leaders and supporters are expected to gather in Indianapolis for the 99th National FFA Convention & Expo, taking place October 21–24, 2026. The annual event celebrates the next generation of agricultural leaders while providing opportunities for education, career exploration, networking and recognition of outstanding student achievements.
As the largest annual gathering of FFA members in the country, the convention brings together students from rural, suburban and urban communities who share a passion for agriculture. The National FFA Organization has grown to more than 1,053,847 student members representing 9,591 local chapters across all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. With more than 350 career opportunities available throughout agriculture, FFA continues to prepare young people for leadership roles in farming, agribusiness, animal science, agricultural technology and many other sectors of the industry.
“What makes this convention special is that our members don’t just receive recognition – they engage with one another and empower each other,” said Christine White, chief program officer of the National FFA Organization. “Whether they’re presenting research on the Student Showcase stage, serving alongside one another in the community or earning their American FFA Degree, they leave Indianapolis ready to lead back home.”
Throughout the four-day convention, FFA members will participate in competitive events, educational workshops, leadership sessions and career development opportunities. One of the event’s most anticipated traditions is the presentation of the American FFA Degree, the organization’s highest degree of membership. This year, 5,816 members will receive the honor in recognition of their dedication to agricultural education, leadership and Supervised Agricultural Experiences. An additional 236 individuals will be recognized with Honorary American FFA Degrees for their contributions to FFA and agricultural education.
The convention also provides opportunities for students to share their agricultural research and hands-on experiences. Through the Student Showcase, members will present agriscience fair projects and Supervised Agricultural Experiences, highlighting innovation and practical applications in agriculture. The Chapter Connect program will bring together members from different communities, while approximately 3,240 students and delegates are expected to volunteer with 27 nonprofit organizations throughout the Indianapolis area.
Career exploration will be another major focus of the event. The National FFA Expo will introduce students to more than 350 agricultural career opportunities and connect them with companies, colleges and organizations representing the many industries that support American agriculture. For students interested in livestock production, animal health, nutrition, agricultural engineering and agribusiness, the convention offers an opportunity to discover career paths and build relationships with industry professionals.
FFA members and advisors will also have access to educational workshops at the Indiana Convention Center and general sessions at Lucas Oil Stadium. Featured keynote speakers include Scott McKain and Reagan Pugh, who will share messages focused on leadership, personal growth and preparing for future success. The School Leaders’ Summit will provide school administrators, counselors and career and technical education leaders with a closer look at the role agricultural education plays in preparing students for the workforce.
Beyond its educational impact, the National FFA Convention is expected to generate approximately $40 million in economic activity for Indianapolis, with attendees utilizing more than 100 hotels throughout the week. The convention will continue to call Indianapolis home through 2040.
The 99th National FFA Convention & Expo officially opened Wednesday, October 21, with activities taking place at the Indiana Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indiana State Fairgrounds and other locations throughout the city. The event concludes Saturday, October 24, with the election of the new National FFA Officer Team.
For those unable to attend in person, FFA Live! will provide streaming coverage of convention activities, including award presentations, interviews with members and special guests, and highlights from throughout the week.
For additional information, convention schedules and live coverage, visit convention.ffa.org.
Source: National FFA Organization
