PepsiCo's Planting Pathways Initiative Boosts Young Farmers

PepsiCo Foods North America has introduced the Planting Pathways Initiative to boost opportunities for young and underrepresented individuals in agriculture. As part of its PepsiCo Positive (pep+) plan, this initiative aims to provide essential resources, training, and career support. This effort aims to address the aging US farming workforce and attract younger people to the sector, thereby strengthening the agricultural industry and ensuring long-term food security, reports HR Dive. 

Announced on July 26, this program aims to expand opportunities for new and underrepresented farmers. The Planting Pathways Initiative includes partnerships with Practical Farmers of Iowa and the Farm Foundation.

Practical Farmers of Iowa will collaborate with PepsiCo to offer coaching, capital, and training to beginner farmers, helping them develop robust business plans. This partnership is designed to strengthen the agricultural sector by supporting emerging producers.

The Farm Foundation’s involvement will introduce the Field to Future program, a two-year cohort offering career development support to college students interested in agriculture. Participants will receive mentorship, scholarships, and the opportunity for a paid internship at PepsiCo.

The initiative addresses the aging workforce in US agriculture, where the average age of farmers is around 58. With only 9% of farmers under 35, the program seeks to attract younger individuals to the field. Increased interest among younger generations in sustainability and self-sufficiency has led to a slight rise in the number of young farmers.

Margaret Henry, Vice President of Sustainable And Regenerative Agriculture, PepsiCo, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation in agriculture through this initiative. The program aims to foster a more resilient and impactful agricultural supply chain from farm to consumer.