Landus, Iowa’s largest agricultural cooperative, announced that LANDWERX, a first-of-its-kind agricultural innovation hub, will now operate independently in a move designed to allow both companies to focus on their separate missions.
In a news release Tuesday, July 1, Landus said the strategic shift allows both organizations to hone their innovative efforts. For LANDWERX, its new independence from Landus will enable it to scale nationally and engage a broader range of partners. Meanwhile, the Des Moines-based Landus will continue its work advancing solutions for Iowa farmers.
Since LANDWERX launched in 2023, Landus has played a central role in early success. The release said. Established as a DEFENSEWERX Hub, LANDWERX began with a vision to revolutionize the agriculture sector by bridging the gap between traditional farming practices and innovative technologies across industries.
The news comes less than a week after Landus announced its national search for a new CEO.
On its website, LANDWERX says the combination of age-old farming wisdom and the power of innovation solves problems in unique ways and ensures food security for all while laying the groundwork for farming’s sustainable future.
Addressing challenges
Through coordinated pilot programs and partnerships with the Landus cooperative, LANDWERX developed and tested solutions addressing challenges faced by Iowa farmers.
- Innovation Connector: This physical space, most recently located in Landus corporate office in Des Moines, was designed to foster collaboration and innovation in agriculture by bringing together farmers, technology companies, and new audiences. It served as a hub for showcasing cutting-edge agricultural technology and facilitating discussions about the future of farming.
- SkyScout: This aerial scouting program uses drone technology and advanced imaging to deliver real-time insights into crop health and field conditions. By identifying issues early and enabling more precise interventions, it helps optimize in-season decision-making.
Landus said it remains committed to working directly with its more than 5,000 farmer-owners to identify emerging needs and deliver practical solutions.
Landus’ Innovation Connector in Des Moines will continue to serve as a hub for cross-sector collaboration, welcoming farmer-owners, students, legislators, and industry partners to shape the future of agriculture. With a continued alignment in their missions and values, Landus and LANDWERX said they will collaborate where shared goals intersect to create a more secure, sustainable, and farmer-focused agricultural future.
As a standalone organization now, LANDWERX plans to bring national focus and cross-industry collaboration to the urgent issue of resiliency and security of the nation’s food system. LANDWERX will serve as a platform to develop and implement innovative agricultural solutions essential to safeguarding the nation’s future.
