Early Life
Harry H. Stine was born in 1941/1942 in Dallas County, Iowa. Raised on a family farm, he developed an early interest in agriculture, driving a tractor at the age of five. After graduating from Central Dallas High School, he attended McPherson College in Kansas.
Rise to Success
In 1964, Stine joined his father's soybean cleaning business in Adel, Iowa. His interest in research and seed breeding started when he found unusual soybean plants. Recognizing the value of developing newer, higher-yielding soybean varieties, he founded Stine Seed Company, focusing on high-yield soybean and corn seeds. Stine's innovation led to the development of superior soybean and corn genetics. He then licensed these genetics to major agribusiness corporations such as Monsanto and Syngenta. This licensing strategy significantly advanced agricultural productivity globally and became the foundation of his financial success.
Key Business Strategies
Stine Seed Company became the world's largest private seed company through a focus on innovation and research, creating high-yield crop varieties to enhance productivity. Stine's emphasis on research and innovation in genetics led to the creation of numerous patented hybrid seeds. His business model included licensing proprietary seed genetics to multinational corporations, which generated significant revenue.
Philanthropy
Harry Stine established the Stine Family Foundation, which provides substantial support to various charitable causes, including education, healthcare, and community development. He has donated to educational institutions, including his alma mater, Iowa State University, funding scholarships, research, and programs aimed at enhancing agricultural education and research.
