The next era of seed genetics and innovation will be based out of the company’s existing Johnston campus.
Corteva has announced the new advanced seed and genetics company, Vylor, Inc., will be headquartered in Johnston after its separation, planned for fourth quarter this year. A variety of Iowans have encouraged this decision since Corteva first introduced its plans in late 2025. Everyone from public officials to farmers, business leaders and community members have voiced support for the future of the business in the state.
For agriculture industry experts, the benefits of being based in Iowa are clear: Iowa is known globally for our productivity and cutting-edge farmers. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig expressed pride in the state’s leadership status, giving credit to farmers who are always looking to improve.
“Innovation is in our DNA,” Naig said. “For as long as we’ve been farming, we’ve been trying to do it better.” Naig also spoke to the significant roster of supply chain businesses located in Iowa, and how they not only closely collaborate, but also put the farmer at the center of their efforts. “Every member of the supply chain is represented here,” he said, “and the companies that surround our farmers also have a spirit of innovation.”
Given the fact Iowa ranks No. 1 nationally in corn, hogs, eggs, ethanol and biodiesel production and No. 2 in soybeans, Corteva’s decision positions its future seed business headquarters close to the greatest concentration of the company’s farmer customers.
“Iowa appreciates companies who are established and growing in Iowa,” said Iowa farmer Tim Kaldenberg. “Especially companies that provide the quality products that we need.” Farmers have expressed pride in Pioneer’s 100-year legacy in Iowa, a desire for continued local connection and the importance of advancing new products alongside end users. “There’s no better place to be than with the cooperative and innovative industry leaders, partners and farmers in Iowa,” Vanette Grover said.
Iowa has long invested in developing its bioscience ecosystem and, as a result, has seen significant growth in patents, venture capital funding and employment in recent years. Corteva’s seed business, which will be focused on leveraging its strengths in biotechnology and germplasm, will find ready inspiration and potential partners among Iowa’s existing innovation- and science- focused companies.
“The thing that stands out about Iowa’s bioscience community is its diversity,” said Jessica Hyland, Executive Director of the Iowa Biotechnology Association and President and CEO of BioConnect Iowa. She says that bringing together experts from across animal health, biofuels, plant science and pharmaceuticals promotes a “cross pollination” of ideas that makes everyone stronger.
Beyond its sector-specific advantages, Iowa business leaders point to the low costs of operating in the state, supportive government and a strong talent pipeline as a few of the many reasons why they chose to be located here.
“As a global company doing business in 80 different countries around the world, we had a choice about where to locate,” said Dan Houston, retired Chairman, President and CEO of Principal. “We’re in Des Moines because we have great corporate tax rates, great personal tax rates and incredibly supportive public officials who want Principal to be here.” Houston also is passionate about the breadth and depth of skill among Iowa’s graduating students and says the state’s college campuses are an “outstanding place to recruit.”
Community members and cities throughout the region echoed support for an Iowa-based headquarters. They shared excitement about how the company’s current and future employees can tap into the exceptional quality of life, low cost of living, strong educational system and welcoming community Johnston and Greater Des Moines offer.
Thank you to everyone who was involved in encouraging Corteva’s leadership in planting the Vylor, Inc. headquarters where it belongs – in Iowa.
