Agribusiness Association of Kentucky
The AGRIBUSINESS ASSOCIATION OF KENTUCKY (ABAK) is an organization established to provide a strong voice in support of Kentucky agriculture.
Serving Kentucky agriculture since 1962, ABAK is the premier organization representing agriculture businesses in the Commonwealth. Members are typically in the business of manufacturing and supplying inputs for agriculture production throughout the state, such as fertilizer, crop protection, seed, feed, equipment, and related services.
ABAK has been on the forefront of reducing overly burdensome government regulations that would harm Kentucky agribusinesses. The Association represents members on issues affecting the industry at the state, local and federal level, plowing the way for Kentucky agriculture. ABAK strives to safeguard members that they may reach their maximum potential without the impediment of unnecessary laws or regulations.
ABAK Services:
ABAK REPRESENTS AGRIBUSINESS IN FRANKFORT - ABAK has been representing agribusinesses at the State Capitol for many years. Through its affiliation with the Kentucky Retail Federation and its lobbying staff, ABAK has established itself as a major player in the legislative arena in Frankfort.
The Association is positioned to get information out quickly to its members and get grassroots response to legislative issues as they arise. This is important during the fast pace of the legislative session where issues can move through the process at lightning speed.
ABAK PROVIDES EMPLOYEE SAFETY TRAINING - ABAK has teamed up with Asmark Institute to help members streamline their business compliance efforts. With more than 30 years of agriculture experience, the management team addresses regulatory requirements in a commonsense manner that produces positive results and yields peace of mind.
ABAK SAVES MEMBERS MONEY - ABAK members have access to a Workers’ Compensation and Health Insurance program designed for agribusinesses.
ABAK PROVIDES CONTINUING EDUCATION AND TRAINING - The Association provides numerous training opportunities for its members, including an annual crop production seminar, pesticide applicator workshop, fertilizer bulk blend schools, and the annual membership meeting, which features various business-related topics. The AgriBusiness Association of Kentucky is continuously looking at the training needs of the membership and continues to build upon this strong tradition of providing education to its members.
ABAK OFFERS INDUSTRY NETWORKING - Members find the most value in participating in ABAK sponsored activities. The agribusiness community of Kentucky is comprised of a number of players, and ABAK activities provide an opportunity for members to meet suppliers, competitors, and many times state officials in an informal atmosphere where business can be transacted, ideas shared and issues resolved.
ABAK PROMOTES AG LEARNING - The ABAK has awarded more than $25,000 in scholarships to undergraduate students to help them afford the cost of a postsecondary education. The scholarship program was established in 1996 to recognize and assist Kentucky students majoring in agriculture. The Association also serves on the Kentucky Agriculture and Environment in the Classroom Program board of directors and takes an active part in promoting agriculture education in classrooms across the state.