Both Archer Daniels Midland (ADM) and AGCO have announced gifts to assist with construction of the Feed Technology Center, a key asset that will advance educational and research opportunities within the University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences (ACES).

ADM made a gift of $2.5 million, and AGCO's gift included three GSI 42 ft. – 15 ring bins with accessories like power sweeps, floors, fans, sidewall stairs and full peak walkaround. The total storage capacity of the package is 200,000 bu.

“Thanks to this investment from ADM, we will continue in our long tradition of leading innovative, industry-relevant research while training the next generation of experts in feed science and animal nutrition,” Kim Kidwell, dean of the College of ACES, said. “We are truly grateful for their partnership both in this moment and throughout the history of the college.” 

Rodney Johnson, head of the University of Illinois department of animal sciences, said, “The generous gift from AGCO will support continued exploration in feed technology by providing essential grain storage and exposing students to equipment representative of what they will encounter in their careers. Gifts of equipment, like this one from AGCO, help immensely in reducing the final construction cost of the facility.”

College of ACES researchers have shaped the feed crop and animal production industries for decades, in partnership with diverse groups of stakeholders. The new facility will significantly expand the reach and capacity of this work through the production of large and small batches of traditional and specialized research diets. ACES students also will gain valuable hands-on experience with cutting-edge feed technologies, creating a workforce pipeline for careers at ADM and similar companies.

“Innovation across the entire ag supply chain is key to helping the entire industry find new solutions to tackle the monumental challenge of feeding the world’s growing population,” said Ryan Lane, president of ADM Animal Nutrition in North America. “ADM is fortunate to have a strong partnership with the College of ACES and access to their animal nutrition staff, student talent and research capabilities as we work together to develop new products, services and solutions. We are proud to help support the College of ACES and the animal nutrition industry on this exciting new project.”

Steve Reid, AGCO general manager, North America Grain & Seed, said, “We are excited that the next generation of agriculture leaders will have the opportunity for hands-on learning using the latest GSI equipment. As we work toward AGCO’s vision of providing high-tech solutions for farmers feeding the world, I can think of no better place to partner with forward-thinking innovators than the College of ACES at the University of Illinois.”

The Feed Technology Center, along with additional ACES facilities, such as the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Laboratory, offers industry partners opportunities to engage in productive research collaborations as well as continuing education for professionals and customers.

Construction on the Feed Technology Center started in June and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2020. Both gifts will ease the financial burden for the University of Illinois and the College of ACES, which have already committed $6 million toward the $20 million project.