Applications Open for IL Corn’s 2027 GROW Program

Illinois corn farmers and agricultural professionals have an opportunity to take their leadership and advocacy skills to Washington, D.C. through the IL Corn’s  GrassRoots Orientation to Washington, D.C. (GR.O.W.) program. Applications are now open for the 2027 program.

GR.O.W. is designed to give participants a firsthand look at how agricultural policy is shaped in the nation’s capital. Participants will shadow experienced IL Corn farmer leaders and staff, attend agricultural issue briefings, join congressional office visits on Capitol Hill, and network with leaders from across agriculture and related industries.

The program is open to corn farmers, tenant farmers, landlords and agribusiness professionals whose businesses are impacted by the growth and sale of corn. Previous advocacy experience is not required. GR.O.W. is intended as a learning experience for those looking to build their leadership and advocacy skills while gaining a better understanding of the policy issues affecting Illinois agriculture.

The 2027 GROW trip is planned for March, with the exact week dependent on the Congressional calendar.

Applications are open now and will close November 16, 2026. Spots are limited, and participants will be selected by the ICGA Grassroots Committee. Selected participants will be notified by December 31, 2026.

Farmers and industry professionals interested in participating can apply for the 2027 GROW program today!

For questions about the program, contact Ashley Deal.