Johnston to serve as home for advanced seed and genetics company Vylor, following the company's planned separation from Corteva later this year
Governor Kim Reynolds today announced that Corteva will locate the global headquarters of Vylor, its future independent seed and genetics company, in Johnston, Iowa, following its planned separation later this year.
“With Pioneer’s century-long legacy in seed genetics, Vylor’s roots are in Iowa, and our state will also be the foundation for its future,” said Governor Kim Reynolds. “This decision further validates Iowa’s leadership in agriculture, bioscience, and innovation, and the competitive business environment we’ve created positions us well as a center for bio-industrial discovery and manufacturing. We look forward to working with Vylor leadership as they begin this next chapter and continue to grow in Iowa.”
The announcement builds on Iowa’s continued investment in its biosciences ecosystem, which has seen growth in research activity, venture capital investment, and specialized talent.
“Our roots stretch back 100 years to a farm in Johnston, which we call home. Vylor is proud to build on our long history of innovation in Iowa, and continue to work alongside farmers to help feed and fuel our growing world,” said future Vylor CEO Chuck Magro.
Headquartered at Corteva’s existing Johnston campus, Vylor will build on Iowa’s deep agricultural roots while advancing next-generation seed genetics and biotechnology. The location places the company at the center of one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world.
“Corteva’s decision to locate its advanced seed and genetics company headquarters in Johnston recognizes not only the long and impactful history Pioneer and its other seed brands have had in Johnston, but also that we are in a great position to support Vylor’s future goals focused on advanced seed and genetics,” said Johnston Mayor Paula Dierenfeld. “Founded in Johnston 100 years ago, Pioneer has been at the forefront of agricultural innovation, discovering and developing groundbreaking solutions to help farmers increase production around the world. Today, that legacy continues, and we’re excited and proud to be the place where the next generation of innovation and growth will take root with Vylor. Here’s to the next 100 years.”
The decision reflects both Iowa’s global leadership and strong support from farmers, business leaders, public officials, and communities across the state.
“This is more than a business development win; it reflects the strength of our community members and ‘Plant the Headquarters Here’ campaign partners who stepped up to express their support for Vylor’s mission in Iowa,” said Debi Durham, director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority. “We organized a grassroots effort very unique to this opportunity, and those voices were heard. More than 700 people signed a petition encouraging Vylor leadership to choose Iowa, with nearly 300 sharing personal stories. This decision is a testament to what Iowa offers – and to the people who make this state exceptional.”
Communities across Greater Des Moines and central Iowa welcomed the announcement, highlighting the region’s quality of life, affordability, strong schools, and vibrant communities as key assets.
“This is a tremendous milestone for Polk County and Greater Des Moines, because of the impact of a major employer and because it sends a clear signal that industry leaders see our region as a place for innovation,” said Matt McCoy, chair of the Polk County Board of Supervisors. “It’s also a vote of confidence in our workforce, our quality of life, and the momentum we’re building. From continued investments in infrastructure like the Des Moines International Airport to the strength of our communities, we’re seeing that momentum pay off. We’re proud to partner with Vylor and appreciate their long-term commitment to growing right here in Polk County.”