The highest point in our state seemed like the perfect place to launch an initiative aimed at examining the ag-related biosciences and business in Indiana. A sizable assemblage of agribusiness, biotech and information technology royalty gathered on the top-floor conference center of the Chase Tower in Indianapolis at the geographic heart of our homeland to introduce us to AgriNovus.
Launched with the tagline “Examining the Agbiosciences in Indiana – A State of Innovation,” David Johnson, president and CEO of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership and Biocrossroads, introduced the new concept and pledged to bring his considerable resources to bear in shining “a spotlight on the innovation in the food and agricultural sector and support continued growth in the industry.”
He is right in his declaration. The industry is one of the most important in our state and continues to bring national and international acclaim to our borders. Most importantly, it vanquishes many tired stereotypes about ag, its workers and the impact it has on our state as a whole.
AgriNovus, as Beth Bechdol, the inaugural executive director said, “lifts up our strategic efforts and raise(s) the level of awareness around Indiana’s strengths in food and agricultural innovation.” In a world confronted with growing populations and shrinking arable land, the innovation that has been a hallmark of food production in the Hoosier State for almost two centuries will become even more critical. On most of the planet, clean, nutritious food and water is far greater a need than the latest iteration of the iWhatever.
Bechdol is the right person for the job. She effortlessly connects disparate groups and bears the steady hand of a well-informed and thoughtful leader. Competent to a fault, she has a big task but is equipped to manage it. Check out www.agrinovusindiana.com. Our food story is an impressive one.