Independently owned and operated Champion Seed is celebrating 20 years of business. The Ellsworth, Iowa-based seed company was started by the Hill and Hodnefield families in 2003. Since then, it has expanded both its size and services.
“We started this company with the goal of serving farmers with the best, most comprehensive seed portfolio focused on above-average yields every season,” says co-owner Brett Hodnefield. “While we’ve changed a lot in 20 years, that goal has remained the same.”
Since 2003, Champion Seed has:
Grown from 10 to 40 employees.
Expanded from five dealers to 170 dealers.
Increased annual seed sales by 700%.
Increased total acres planting Champion Seed by 800%.
Diversified corn and soybean traits to create complete, top-of-the-line portfolios.
Remained one of the fastest-growing, family-owned seed companies in the United States.
“We know farmers have near-unlimited choices when it comes to seed and other inputs,” says co-owner Seth Hill. “We are humbled and honored to have so many farmers choosing our seed products to stay profitable and competitive.”
Hodnefield and Hill remind farmers that while top-quality seed is a priority, customer service and accessibility should be just as important.
“Accessibility is really what sets us apart,” says Hodnefield. “Seth, our devoted team of agronomists and I are available 24/7 to ensure farmers get what they need. From agronomic resources and guidance to an emergency seed delivery, we pride ourselves on being here for you.”
Catch Champion Seed celebrating 20 years on the 2023 Farm Journal Pro Farmer Crop Tour August 21 – 23.
Learn more about Champion Seed’s portfolio, agronomy resources and more at plantchampion.com.
ABOUT CHAMPION SEED
Founded by family partners, Champion Seed is a regionally focused independent seed company that strives to build and maintain the broadest portfolio of genetics and traits. We aren’t limited to one gene pool — but instead have the freedom to select the best of the best from the top breeding programs to meet the varying needs of our customers. We match seed to soil right down to the county level and from seed selection to delivery we are with our customers every step of the way.
