Grassroots Fellowship
The IA-MO Grassroots Fellowship is a collaborative, one-year experience for young soybean farmers from Iowa and Missouri who possess a desire to learn more about government and the legislative process, all while improving their core leadership. The program is funded in part by non-checkoff resources. For additional information, check out the Grassroots Fellowship recruitment flyer.
Who should apply and participate?
One applicant in good membership standing will be selected from each crop reporting district in Iowa (9) and Missouri (7).
| What to expect |
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The unique program offering will allow participants to explore and better understand challenging U.S. agricultural policy/regulation and how it intersects with production agriculture and the value chain. It empowers farmer-to-farmer learning and equips participants to be leaders on behalf of agriculture and the soybean industry. The following are the core tenets of the experience:
- Network and socialize with fellow producers, industry professionals and key decision makers;
- Build a foundational understanding of the legislative and regulatory process; and
- Develop and strengthen personal leadership skills.
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Why participate in the Grassroots Fellowship?
Regulations can significantly impact a farmer’s freedom to operate and their bottom line.
Grassroots Fellowship will give participants the opportunity to network with Midwestern farmers, Fortune 500 leaders, industry professionals and policymakers.
The future of American agriculture depends on sound public policy and the development of leaders who share an appreciation for the legislative and regulatory process.
2024-25 Program Dates
Grassroots Fellowship will plan to meet on the following dates.
| Aug. 27 – 29, 2024 – Boone, IA |
Farm Progress Show + Kickoff Meeting |
| Nov. 2024 – TBD |
Delegate Small Group Meetings |
| Dec. 18, 2024 – Des Moines, IA |
Winter Soy Summit |
| Feb. 3, 2025 – Des Moines, IA |
Farm Forward & Legislative Reception |
| Mar. 2 - 4, 2025 – Denver, CO |
Commodity Classic |
| Jul. 15 - 17, 2025 – Washington D.C. |
American Soybean Association Board of Directors Meeting & Hill Visits |
Interested in participating in the 2024-25 Grassroots Fellowship?
Fill out the application below by July 29, 2024. Contact Megan Decker for more information or assistance.