Ag Innovation Campus Gears Up for Fundraising and Expansion

Friday, May 19, 2023

The highly anticipated Ag Innovation Campus (AIC) in Crookston, Minnesota, is gearing up to start soybean processing operations in the summer of 2023. This cutting-edge facility, founded by the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, and the Agricultural Utilization and Research Institute, is located on a 10-acre site in southwest Crookston.

The AIC is expected to crush an impressive 240 tons of soybeans daily, with an annual capacity of 62,420 tons. The project has been made possible through a combination of loans, private industry donations, state and national soybean checkoffs, and state funding.

Construction of the AIC began in October 2020 and is nearing completion, with most of the specialized equipment already delivered. Tom Slunecka, Executive Director of the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council expressed excitement.

In its early stages, the plant will focus on oilseed processing, including soybeans, canola, and the oilseed cover crop, pennycress. However, future plans for the AIC involve expanding operations to include grain milling, encompassing wheat, corn, and barley.

The soybean processing operations are slated to commence in July, with an official grand opening scheduled for September. The AIC represents a significant milestone for Minnesota's agricultural industry, offering new avenues for growth and economic opportunities for soybean growers and the broader community.

As the AIC prepares to launch its soybean processing capabilities, industry stakeholders eagerly anticipate the positive impact this state-of-the-art facility will have on the region's agricultural landscape.

Phase 2 will focus on constructing offices, laboratory space for the Agricultural Utilization and Research Institute (AURI), and dedicated education rooms. Furthermore, Phase 3 aims to create incubator spaces for specialty processors.

The AIC is seeking donations and sponsorships to expedite Phase 2 and Phase 3, with the goal of generating profits to support future expansion.

The Ag Innovation Campus has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic but has gained support from the soybean and specialty crops industries.

The AIC's continued growth and expansion not only benefits the agricultural community in Crookston but also provides a platform for innovation and collaboration within the industry.