Missouri Soybeans celebrates 5 years of outreach at Center for Soy Innovation

Missouri Soybeans is celebrating the fifth anniversary of the Center for Soy Innovation, marking a milestone in advancing agricultural education, industry partnerships and advocacy for the state’s soybean farmers.

Since its opening, the center has welcomed more than 13,500 visitors and hosted over 500 events, reinforcing its role as a hub for soybean innovation and engagement.

“The Center for Soy Innovation was designed to be more than just a facility—it’s a space for learning, collaboration and showcasing the power of soy,” said Gary Wheeler, Missouri Soybeans CEO and executive director.

“Reaching this five-year milestone is a testament to the impact we’ve made in connecting farmers, industry leaders, policymakers, and the next generation with the innovations shaping Missouri agriculture,” he said.

Located in Jefferson City, the Center for Soy Innovation serves as a dynamic hub for all things soy.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits featuring soy-based building materials, including countertops, flooring, insulation and turf, as well as learn about soy’s applications in asphalt sealant and biodiesel-fueled heating systems.

The center offers educational opportunities for school field trips, small group meetings, scout troops, and any individuals interested in learning more about soy.

Over the past five years, the center has hosted hundreds of groups and events, including more than 40 field trips, 110 state department visits, and gatherings for nearly 80 agricultural organizations and 40 industry partners.

Engagement has also extended beyond agriculture, with 180 community partners utilizing the space and nearly 30 political groups engaging with Missouri Soybeans to discuss agricultural policy and industry priorities.

“The Center for Soy Innovation continues to be a place where agriculture and education intersect, giving visitors a hands-on experience to see the versatility of soy,” said Baylee Asbury, director of outreach and education.

“Whether it’s students on a field trip, policymakers learning about biodiesel, or industry leaders exploring soy-based building materials, we’re helping people understand how much soy impacts their daily lives,” Asbury added.

As Missouri Soybeans looks ahead, the center will continue to expand programming, outreach and research opportunities to ensure soybean innovation remains at the forefront of agriculture.

To schedule a visit, contact Asbury at basbury@mosoy.org.

More information about the center can be found at mosoy.org.