2024 GroundBreaker of the Year

Establishing a Legacy – 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year

Uncovering unique business opportunities, Sawyer Cottrell broke into the industry in 2021 as a first-generation farmer in Eureka, Ill. He raises and sells Wagyu beef directly to consumers, owns and operates a weed removal service for organic farmers, and teaches high school agriculture.

Sawyer’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for local youth set him apart. With genuine admiration, Compeer Financial names him as the 2024 GroundBreaker of the Year.

The $5,000 GroundBreaker of the Year award annually recognizes a young, beginning, or small farmer in Compeer’s territory who possesses an unmatched passion for agriculture and is making a positive impact in the industry.

“Young and beginning farmers are the lifeblood and future of agriculture,” Dana says. “As a lender, when you start with a first time farming loan, you naturally form a bond that grows together with the farm.”

Before starting a small farm, Sawyer established Central Illinois Beanwalkers (CIB) as a high schooler. CIB employs more than 150 area youth to help the growing organic community by walking fields to manually remove weeds. Sawyer’s impact on the community continues through his role as the local ag teacher.

Each day Sawyer challenges the mentality that entry into agriculture is nearly impossible without an established connection – setting an example for high school youth and his own kids. 

“There are so many different ways to be part of this industry, so I truly think anything is possible,” Sawyer notes. “If you are willing to put in the time and have the determination to see it through, ­­­you can start your own legacy.”

Legacy Ranch embodies an idea bigger than Sawyer and his family. It is a flourishing example of what can happen when people are given the opportunity to pursue their dreams.