And the Seed World Global Impact Award Goes to…

And the Seed World Global Impact Award Goes to…

The seed industry has witnessed a significant milestone as the Seed World Global Impact Award 2025 for Best Event across the entire global seed sector was awarded to the Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA). The prestigious accolade was presented to the visible surprise of IPSA CEO Todd Martin during IPSA 2026 in Indianapolis. This award recognizes the IPSA Conference’s influence, strong member engagement, and its role in shaping the future of the independent seed sector.

The announcement of IPSA’s win was met with excitement and applause at the conference, celebrating the organization’s ability to bring the independent seed sector together in ways that are practical, engaging, and globally relevant. Shawn Brook, from Seed World, paused the 2026 IPSA conference program to deliver the news and present the award. “I wanted to interrupt for a minute because I and Seed World travel to every seed event that happens around the world,” Brook said during the presentation. “Each year, the Seed World team recognizes one of these events with a Global Impact Award for best event. This year, I’m very pleased to tell you that IPSA 2025 (and let me say that IPSA 2026 was even better) wins that award. So congratulations to you, to your team and to your members.”

IPSA CEO Todd Martin was visibly moved by the announcement. “It’s a great honor. Thank you very much. I’m kind of speechless… and I think all of you know that doesn’t happen very often,” Martin said. He was quick to credit the IPSA team, singling out Catherine Frans for her role in shaping the meeting. “If I didn’t have my partner in crime, Catherine Frans, here, none of this would be possible. I hope everybody here understands how much Catherine contributes to the success of this meeting.”

Brook further highlighted that IPSA has become a model for what effective industry events should deliver. “IPSA has become a benchmark for how associations can drive global impact through relevance, credibility, and community. The conversations that happened in Palm Springs last January helped shaped how the independent seed sector competes, innovates, and speaks with a unified voice. The event’s success in fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration among industry professionals has set a high standard for other organizations to follow.”

The Seed World Global Impact Award is a testament to IPSA’s dedication to fostering a strong, connected, and innovative seed sector. By prioritizing member engagement and providing a platform for meaningful discussions, IPSA has not only won this year’s award but has also established itself as a leader in the industry.

The award ceremony was a highlight of IPSA 2026, showcasing the organization’s commitment to excellence and its impact on the global seed sector. As the independent seed sector continues to evolve, IPSA’s success serves as an inspiration for other associations looking to create impactful events that drive industry growth and innovation.

In conclusion, the Seed World Global Impact Award 2025 for Best Event has gone to the Independent Professional Seed Association (IPSA), recognizing its exceptional contributions to the global seed sector. This accolade underscores IPSA’s ability to unite industry professionals, foster meaningful discussions, and shape the future of the independent seed sector through relevance, credibility, and community. As IPSA moves forward, its continued success will undoubtedly inspire other organizations to strive for excellence and make a global impact.