National FFA announced today that the National FFA Convention & Expo will continue to be held in Indianapolis through at least 2040. The announcement was made during the kickoff event for the 98th National FFA Convention & Expo, which is expected to bring more than 71,000 FFA members, advisors, alumni and supporters to Indianapolis from across the country.
“We’re thrilled about the opportunity to continue calling Indianapolis home for our convention through 2040,” said Cheryl Zimmerman, National FFA Organization Executive Secretary. “This city has proven time and again to be an incredible partner, welcoming our members with open arms, providing world-class facilities, and helping us create life-changing experiences for students in agricultural education. Extending our convention contract ensures we can keep building on that strong foundation and inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders for years to come.”
The National FFA Convention & Expo was held in Indianapolis from 2006 to 2012. After a few years away, the event returned to the city in 2016 and has been held in Indianapolis ever since. Each year, the National FFA Convention & Expo brings an estimated $40 million to Indianapolis.
“Keeping the National FFA meeting in Indy continues to be a priority for our city and our entire tourism industry,” said Chris Gahl, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Visit Indy. “We appreciate National FFA’s renewed commitment to Indy through 2040 and we stand ready to help grow their annual convention into our growing Indiana Convention Center.”
The convention has grown significantly over the last several years, bringing together more than 70,000 attendees each fall, an increase from 50,000 in previous years. The previous contract ensured the event would continue in Indianapolis through 2033, so this announcement adds another seven years to the agreement.
This year’s National FFA Convention & Expo runs from Oct. 29 to Nov. 1, with events happening at the Indiana Convention Center and dozens of other off-site locations around the state. The event creates spaces for students, advisors, alumni and supporters to build networks and engage with one another. It also provides an opportunity to celebrate FFA members and their successes. During the convention, FFA members participate in National Days of Service around the city, giving back to the Indianapolis community that hosts the annual event.
