What is your story?

I am the 6th generation to farm in the Minden-Axtell area. It is a tradition that I am honored to be a part of. It started for me in 2012 when my parents gave me the opportunity to crop-share 160 acres of soybeans with them. I sold my first soybean crop for $15, which I never expect to do again! Since then I have expanded my operation and have started a corporation. I have complimented my farming business by becoming a seed dealer in 2015. I am currently back home farming with my family and working on creating a customer-base for my seed business. I love farming and selling seed, but my view of success is not found in what I do or how good I am at doing that, it is found in Jesus Christ being my Lord and Savior. Because of having a relationship with him I can glorify him and live for him through my passion for agriculture. He has blessed me so very much in my life, but I realize more and more how temporary this world is and how having a personal relationship with Jesus is really the only thing that matters.

What is your business?

Mark Lundeen, Inc.: I started farming corn and soybeans in 2012 as the 6th generation on the family farm. A tradition I am very proud to be a part of. Producers Hybrid Seed Corn Dealer: I started selling seed corn in 2015 for Producers Hybrids. My big idea with this business is to expand my customer base and create additional services to compliment the business.

Who is your entrepreneurial inspiration OR biggest hero?

My biggest entrepreneurial hero was my great grandfather Harold Lundeen. He was known as a "gentlemen farmer". He started Lundeen Feed and Seed and sold the first bag of hybrid seed corn in Kearney County in 1936. There has been a farmer and seed dealer in the family for over 80 years.

If your story were made into a movie, what actor/actress would portray you and why?

I am not much of a movie-watcher, but if I had to portray an actor I would choose Andy Griffith. I am a calm, easy-going person, who gets along with people well.

What advice would you give to a student starting their entrepreneurial journey?

I would advise a student to think about how they can use their current relationships to be able to provide a service that is a void in their area. Then I would see if it's financially feasible and profitable. Using resources and relationships is the first step in creating a customer base.