Culver’s Thank You Farmers Project has reached a major milestone, surpassing $8 million in total donations since the program launched in 2013 — a record that reflects more than a decade of customer-driven support for farmers, agricultural education and rural communities.
What began as a simple effort to recognize the farmers behind the food served in Culver’s restaurants has grown into a nationwide initiative supporting the long-term viability of agriculture. In 2025 alone, guests and local fundraising efforts generated more than $1.5 million, marking one of the strongest years in the program’s history.
“Behind every meal we serve in our restaurants are local hardworking farmers,” said Alison Demmer, Culver’s senior public relations manager. “This year and every year, we’re proud to work alongside our guests to create something truly meaningful, and we’re so thankful to everyone who joined us in furthering our efforts to uplift our next generation of farmers.”
The Thank You Farmers Project focuses on strengthening the future of agriculture through partnerships, community involvement, and direct support of organizations working in education, advocacy, and food security. Much of the program’s success is driven by guest participation, with donations tied to special events, promotions, and contests throughout the year.
In 2025, one of those efforts included Green and Gold, where Culver’s donated $1 for each rental and digital purchase of the movie of the same name, resulting in $100,000 donated to three agricultural organizations. Another popular initiative, the “To Farmers with Love Contest,” invited guests to nominate farmers and ranchers in their communities. Five winners received a $500 cash prize, a VIP Tim McGraw concert experience at the Field of Dreams, along with Culver’s gift cards and branded merchandise.
Support for youth and agricultural education also remained a central focus. During the 11th annual Scoops of Thanks Day, guests donated more than $170,000 by exchanging a $1 donation for a single scoop of Fresh Frozen Custard. Proceeds benefited local FFA chapters and other agricultural education organizations, reinforcing Culver’s long-standing relationship with FFA and youth development.
Another systemwide fundraiser, Concretes for a Cause, raised more than $570,000 over a five-day period. Culver’s donated $1 from every Concrete Mixer sold to local hunger relief initiatives, connecting agricultural support with efforts to address food insecurity in communities across the country.
The Culver’s FFA Ambassadors program further highlighted the company’s investment in the next generation of agricultural leaders. Guests nominated standout FFA members to serve as ambassadors, with ten selected students earning up to $2,500 for their local chapters. The funds were used to support learning experiences and agriculture advocacy events in partnership with Culver’s.
