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F3i Launches Supercomputing Center at Fresno State: Learn more & access the portal
NEWS & UPDATES
Welcome to the F3 Initiative News page, your source for the latest updates and stories about our work transforming agriculture in California's Central Valley. Explore articles across our three gears—F3 Innovate, F3 Local, and AgTEC Workforce—to learn how we’re driving innovation, empowering local farmers, and upskilling workers for a sustainable future. Whether you’re interested in groundbreaking ag-tech research, community-based food systems, or workforce development, there’s something here for everyone.
AgTEC Career Fair - June 4
The F3 Initiative’s AgTEC Workforce program is bringing students and employers together for an exciting opportunity to connect, learn, and grow at the upcoming AgTEC Career Fair. All AgTEC students from across the region’s community colleges are encouraged to attend and explore the wide range of career opportunities available.
Mar 31
Inside F3 Innovate’s Vision for Agriculture (AgNet West)
At the World Ag Expo, one conversation with “the Ag Meter” Nick Papagni, stood out as a glimpse into the future of farming. Priscilla Koepke, CEO of F3 Innovate, shared how her organization is working to transform agriculture in California’s Central Valley—and beyond—through technology, education, and collaboration.
Mar 25
Big Ag Shows Interest in Fresno State’s Robot Harvester (The Fresno Bee)
A team of Fresno State engineering students is developing a first-of-its-kind robotic tool that could dramatically change the way citrus fruit is harvested. In field tests, the machine’s robotic hand has successfully completed several critical benchmarks, including being able to precisely cut the fruit’s stem so as not to leave any sharp edges.
Mar 21
Ag Day at Fresno Chaffee Zoo
On Saturday, March 21, Fresno Chaffee Zoo will host Ag Day: Seed to Table, a vibrant celebration honoring the region that helps feed our community—and the world. This special event invites families, farmers, innovators, youth leaders, and community members to come together for a fun, hands-on experience that highlights the richness and diversity of agriculture across our region.
Mar 19
International Year of the Woman Farmer
The United Nations has declared 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026), a global recognition of the vital role women play across agrifood systems. Women farmers are central to food security, nutrition and economic resilience. Women farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and leaders are shaping the future of agriculture every day, balancing tradition, innovation, and community impact.
Mar 17
F3 Local Launches 'Central to the Valley' Regional Brand
F3 Local and CAFF celebrated the official launch of "Central to the Valley", a new regional brand designed to amplify connection to Central Valley agriculture and highlight the farmers at the heart of our food system.
Mar 13
VIDEO: 2026 World Ag Expo®
This recap video highlights the F3 Initiative and F3 Innovate’s participation at the 2026 World Ag Expo, including a co-sponsorship of the Top 10 New Products and F3i's interactive booth featuring F3 partners and a live podcast station.
Mar 11
Agave Events hosted by UC Merced (March 17-18, 2026)
Join us for two agave events this week, hosted by UC Merced. First, on March 17th, join researchers for "From Monterrey to Merced - Agave Research & Academic Collaboration with Tecnológico de Monterrey", then on March 18th, join a public 21+ only event at UC Merced on Main: "Beyond Spirits: Agave as a Source of Knowledge and Benefits"
Mar 9
Ag Bag Events are Back this Semester at UC Merced
Ag Bag gatherings are back at UC Merced this semester, creating space for faculty, staff, graduate students, and post-docs to come together and strengthen the agricultural research community on campus. Join the next Ag Bag on Thursday, March 5, with a focus on “Environmental Stressors & Resilience in Agricultural Systems.”
Feb 27
F3 Local at Eco-Farm: Value-Added Food Production
Eco-Farm’s 46th annual conference was held from January 21st to 24th. This year brought together over 1,500 organic and regenerative farmers, educators, and researchers from throughout California. F3 Local made its first appearance this year, with Food Innovation and Small Business Coordinator, Yonatan Weinberg, facilitating a discussion on value-added production and processing.
Feb 26
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