Gov. Reynolds Announces Vylor Will Headquarter in Iowa, Continuing Pioneer Legacy

JOHNSTON, Iowa — Governor Kim Reynolds announced Tuesday that Vylor, Corteva’s future independent seed and genetics company, will establish its global headquarters in Johnston, Iowa, following the company’s planned separation later this year.

The announcement keeps one of agriculture’s most recognizable legacies rooted in Iowa, as Vylor traces its origins to Pioneer, the iconic seed brand founded in Johnston more than a century ago.

“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,” Reynolds said. “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.”

Vylor will be headquartered on Corteva’s existing Johnston campus and will focus on advancing next-generation seed genetics and biotechnology. Company leaders said Iowa’s agricultural heritage and central location within one of the world’s most productive farming regions made it a natural fit.

“Our roots stretch back 100 years to a farm in Johnston, which we call home,” said future Vylor CEO Chuck Magro. “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.”

State leaders said the announcement reflects continued growth in Iowa’s biosciences sector, including increases in research activity, venture capital investment, and specialized talent development.

Johnston Mayor Paula Dierenfeld said the decision recognizes both the city’s history and its role in shaping the future of agricultural innovation.

“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,” Dierenfeld said. “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.”

The decision also follows a statewide grassroots campaign encouraging the company to remain in Iowa. According to Iowa Economic Development Authority Director Debi Durham, more than 700 people signed a petition supporting Iowa as Vylor’s headquarters location, with nearly 300 sharing personal stories about the company’s impact.

“This is more than a business development win,” Durham said. “This decision is a testament to what Iowa offers — and to the people who make this state exceptional.”

Local leaders across central Iowa also praised the announcement, citing the region’s workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life as key factors in attracting and retaining major employers.

“This is a tremendous milestone for Polk County and Greater Des Moines,” said Polk County Board of Supervisors Chair Matt McCoy. “It sends a clear signal that industry leaders see our region as a place for innovation.”

McCoy added that continued investments in infrastructure, including improvements at the Des Moines International Airport, have helped position the region for long-term economic growth.

Vylor’s planned launch later this year marks a new chapter for one of Iowa’s most historic agricultural brands while reinforcing the state’s role as a global leader in seed technology and bioscience innovation.