The mission of the Seed Science Foundation is to address seed and plant science challenges, encourage plant breeding education and seed research in support of the ever-changing needs of the global seed industry. This meeting is a closed meeting of Board members only, however, if you would like to inquire about participation, contact Ann Jorss at ajorss@betterseed.org.

Join us as we kick off the 2025 ASTA Leadership Summit! Don’t miss out on an opportunity to meet fellow attendees, reconnect with colleagues, and set the tone for an engaging and productive week in Washington, D.C. Enjoy refreshments and a relaxed atmosphere while networking with industry professionals in a lively setting.

Hear from political leaders at the helm of critical policies and agendas at the United States Department of Agriculture. Attendees can expect to learn more about relevant priorities within the Administration, emerging initiatives, and the role of USDA in supporting the seed industry.

Learn about future opportunities and challenges for U.S. agriculture on the global stage. Gain insights into the role of trade agreements, tariffs, and activities at the United Nations and World Trade Organization as the new Administration advances their trade agenda.

Join us for ASTA’s Awards Luncheon, where we honor the dedicated service and exemplary leadership of professionals within the seed industry.  ASTA will recognize individuals receiving this year’s Chairman’s Distinguished Service Award, the ASTA Heritage Award, and the Lifetime Honorary Membership Award.

Hear from key congressional staff on the importance of advocacy, and policy priorities of interest to the seed industry. We will end the day with break-out groups dedicated to specific topics, allowing a chance to learn and gain insight from other seed industry professionals.

Following a productive day sharpening our skills for Advocacy Day, join friends and colleagues for a reception hosted by the Seed First PAC. Enjoy refreshments and attendee-only raffles and auction items.

Start your day with a working breakfast as we prepare to make our way to Capitol Hill for ASTA’s 2025 Advocacy Day. ASTA staff will review the run of show for the day, ensure that attendees have all the necessary materials for the day’s meetings, and answer any remaining questions. Hill meetings will begin at 10AM.

Conference attendees will disperse across Capitol Hill to begin their meetings with key Congressional offices. A suite of tools will be available through a dedicated mobile app, “AdvocacyDay.” Instructions for using this app to help conduct your meetings will be reviewed as part of Advocacy Day preparations on Monday afternoon.

Join us for a reception on Capitol Hill to celebrate a day of advocacy and engagement in the halls of Congress. Enjoy refreshments with industry partners, members of Congress, and their staff as we strengthen relationships and reflect on the day’s discussions through this widely attended event.