The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) today launched the 2026 Rising Stars award program, sponsored by Atticus. The Rising Stars program provides ARA member companies a way to reward employees for their work at the annual ARA Conference & Expo in Austin, TX. Recognized in front of hundreds of professionals, nominees will have networking opportunities and explore new ways to hone their leadership skills.
This year’s award program theme is Amplify Your Leadership.
Nomination Requirements:
- A limit of three individuals from the same company may be nominated
- Nominee must be employed by an ARA member company in good standing
- Nominee must have 10 years of experience or less in the ag sector
- Nomination forms are due by COB on Friday, September 18
Additionally, each accepted Rising Star has the opportunity to participate in the program’s Fan Favorite Video Contest by submitting a video related to the program theme before September 30, 2026.
The 2026 ARA Conference & Expo will be held December 1-3 in Austin, Texas. Selected Rising Stars will attend the conference at a special discounted rate.
Early bird registration is currently open for all interested conference attendees. Learn more about and register for the 2026 ARA Conference & Expo here.
Learn more about the Rising Stars program and nominate a Rising Star here.
