Applications open for 2025 Syngenta Business Institute
Golf course superintendents face growing pressures beyond turf management, including business challenges, labor shortages and evolving player expectations. To help address these demands, the Syngenta Business Institute (SBI) is now accepting applications for its 17th annual professional development program. Scheduled for Dec. 2-5, 2025, at the Graylyn International Conference Center in Winston-Salem, N.C., SBI offers a focused curriculum designed to enhance superintendents’ business acumen and leadership capabilities.
Superintendents today must balance maintaining high-quality turf with managing budgets, personnel and stakeholder expectations. According to the company, the golf industry is evolving rapidly, with trends such as sustainability initiatives, technology integration and shifting demographics reshaping operations. Cody Sander, superintendent at Wilmington Country Club in Delaware (who attended the 2024 program) noted that SBI stands out among professional development opportunities because it addresses the real-world business side of golf course management, separate from product sales and equips participants with practical strategies.
In partnership with Wake Forest University’s Executive Education program, SBI delivers a four-day intensive experience covering topics essential to effective leadership:
- Leadership and decision making
- Work/life balance
- Negotiations
- Leading across cultures and generations
According to the company, participants also gain 1.5 GCSAA Education Points and valuable networking opportunities with peers and industry professionals. The program limits class size to foster meaningful interaction between instructors and attendees.
Applicants must be U.S.-based golf course superintendents, directors of agronomy or in similar roles, as well as current GreenTrust 365 participants. The application process includes submitting an online form with a short essay explaining why the candidate should be selected. The deadline is midnight PDT on Aug. 11, 2025, with notifications sent in October.
By strengthening superintendents’ leadership and business skills, SBI aims to the sustainability and competitiveness of golf courses nationwide. As courses navigate economic pressures, labor challenges and environmental concerns, well-prepared superintendents are critical to delivering exceptional playing conditions and operational excellence. This program aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing professional development as a key driver of success.
With the 2025 Syngenta Business Institute application window now open, superintendents seeking to advance their careers and adapt to the multifaceted demands of modern golf course management have a timely opportunity to apply. Head to the website here to apply.
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