Agribusiness Association of Iowa Announces Inaugural Agribusiness Impact Award Honorees

Steve Sukup, Dave Tierney, Liqui-Grow to be Recognized at Agribusiness Showcase & Conference for Outstanding Contributions to Iowa Agriculture

DES MOINES, Iowa, Jan. 14, 2026 - The Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI) today announced two individuals and one business as the inaugural recipients of the Agribusiness Impact Award, recognizing exceptional contributions to Iowa agriculture.

The Agribusiness Impact Award will be presented to Steve Sukup, Sukup Manufacturing; Dave Tierney, Bayer CropScience (retired); and Liqui-Grow at the Agribusiness Showcase & Conference, Feb. 10 at the Meadows Conference Center in Altoona, Iowa.

"Iowa agriculture thrives because of leaders who are deeply committed to innovation, service, and community," said Julie Kenney, Agribusiness Association of Iowa CEO. "These inaugural Agribusiness Impact Award honorees exemplify the leadership and commitment this award is meant to honor, and their contributions have strengthened Iowa agriculture and positioned our state for continued success."

Agribusiness Impact Award Honorees:

Steve Sukup - Sukup Manufacturing
Steve Sukup has made a profound and measurable difference in Iowa agriculture through his leadership, innovation, and public service. Growing up in Sheffield, Iowa, Steve has devoted his career to the family business, Sukup Manufacturing, and currently serves as co-chairman of the board of directors. He also served in the Iowa House of Representatives from 1994-2002, championing policies to strengthen rural communities and support farmers.

Under Steve's leadership, Sukup Manufacturing has remained family-owned and committed to its Iowa roots and has expanded beyond its traditional product lines to become a global leader in agricultural manufacturing. As the business has grown, it has created high-quality manufacturing jobs in rural Iowa and driven innovation in grain storage, drying, handling, and safety. Beyond business success, Steve has supported ethanol and biofuels advocacy, disaster relief efforts through Safe T Home®, and numerous local nonprofits, reflecting his deep commitment to Iowa communities.

Steve serves on multiple boards, including the Iowa Motor Truck Association, Iowa Public Television, and Ringneck Energy, and holds leadership positions with Golden Rule Insurance and Golden Grain Energy.

Dave Tierney - Bayer CropScience (retired)
Dave Tierney has made a lasting impact on Iowa agriculture through nearly four decades of leadership, advocacy, and commitment to farmers. A native of southern Iowa, Dave built a career focused on advancing innovation, strengthening public policy, and supporting Iowa's farming community.

Dave began his career working in Iowa fields before advancing through leadership roles with DEKALB, Monsanto, and Bayer CropScience, focusing on sales, management, and government affairs.

A respected advocate for Iowa agriculture, Dave championed policies and technologies that improved productivity and sustainability. Through his involvement with organizations such as the Agribusiness Association of Iowa, CropLife America, and the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, he helped amplify farmers' voices in public policy discussions and supported the introduction of transformative innovations, including biotech crops and dicamba-tolerant technologies.

Throughout his career, Dave was also known for mentoring colleagues and developing future leaders, leaving a legacy of collaboration and service that continues to benefit Iowa agriculture.

Liqui-Grow - Agricultural Business
For 67 years, Liqui-Grow has exemplified excellence in agronomy, sustainability, and community stewardship. Under the leadership of the Tinsman family, the company has maintained its Iowa roots, creating jobs and investing in local communities.

Liqui-Grow's innovations in nutrient management, including the use of nitrogen and phosphorus stabilizers, liquid suspension fertilizers, and its Exactstrip application technology, have advanced both productivity and environmental stewardship. The company also emphasizes education and mentorship, providing field research, internship opportunities, and digital learning resources through Liqui-Grow Loop.

Beyond agronomic innovation, Liqui-Grow demonstrates a deep commitment to Iowa communities, supporting FFA programs, 4-H, local schools, and charitable initiatives. Its contributions strengthen both the agricultural economy and the communities where it operates.

About the Agribusiness Impact Award

The Agribusiness Impact Award recognizes individuals, businesses, or initiatives that have made a lasting impact on Iowa's agricultural economy, rural communities, or the broader food and ag system. Award recipients are selected based on leadership, innovation, and contributions to the advancement of Iowa agriculture.

About the Agribusiness Association of Iowa

The Agribusiness Association of Iowa (AAI) represents the business of agriculture in Iowa. Its members include agricultural suppliers, cooperatives, grain handlers, and service providers across the ag value chain. AAI advocates for sound public policy, provides professional development and education, and promotes the long-term success of Iowa's agricultural economy.

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HONOREE IMAGES:

Steve Sukup | Dave Tierney | LiquiGrow