GR.O.W. with ICGA – GrassRoots Orientation to Washington, D.C
What is GR.O.W.?
GrassRoots Orientation to Washington, D.C. (GR.O.W.) is an immersive leadership and advocacy experience designed to help farmers and industry professionals GROW their advocacy and leadership skill set.
Participants will:
- Shadow experienced Corn Grower Directors and staff
- Attend agricultural issue briefings
- Join congressional office visits on Capitol Hill
- Network with influential leaders from a variety of businesses/ organizations
Key Details
When: March 2027 (2nd or 3rd week, depending on the Congressional Calendar, which is set in December)
Who Should Apply: Corn farmers, tenant farmers, landlord, or any agribusiness professional whose business is impacted by the growth and sale of corn
Cost to Participate:
- Airfare, ground transportation, lodging, and meals (during business activities) covered by IL Corn
- One pre-arranged sightseeing opportunity may be available (schedule permitting)
- Any additional meals, events, or personal expenses are the responsibility of the participant
- Must be a current ICGA member at the time of the trip
Expectations for Participants
- Follow ICGA’s business schedule
- Engage at a level you’re comfortable with (this is a learning experience)
- Represent IL Corn with professionalism
- Be open to sharing your experience afterwards (via social media, recordings, or at industry meetings like County Farm Bureau or County Corn Board)
Application & Selection
- Online application is open and will close on November 16th
- Spots are limited
- Selection made by the ICGA Grassroots Committee
- Must be 21 or older at the time of the trip
- Program acceptance notification will be made by December 31, 2026
- ICGA will not discriminate based on age, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or political affiliation
FAQs
Do I need previous advocacy experience to participate?
No. GR.O.W. is designed as a learning experience for farmers and industry professionals who want to develop their leadership and advocacy skills. Participants will learn from IL Corn board directors and staff.
Do I have to be a farmer to apply?
Applicants will be selected based on a variety of criteria. While those individuals with personal farming background are preferred, the selection committee sees value in a range of skills and experience drawn from the corn industry. In addition to full-time farmers, in the past we’ve had dairy farmers, ag teachers, farm managers, seed salesmen, and stay-at-home farm moms. All contributed a wealth of knowledge and personal experience with them to our work in D.C.
Do I have to be an ICGA member to participate?
Yes. Participants must be current members of the IL Corn Growers Association at the time of the trip.
Not a member yet? Join today
What will I do during the GR.O.W. trip?
Participants follow IL Corn’s schedule in Washington, D.C., which will include issue briefings, congressional visits, meetings with agricultural and government leaders, networking opportunities and other activities designed to provide a firsthand look at agricultural policy.
Who can I contact if I have additional questions?
If you have questions about GR.O.W., contact Ashley Deal for more information.
Questions?
Contact Us
By engaging with policymakers and sharing your real-world experiences, you are helping to ensure that laws and regulations reflect practical needs and support the long-term success of Illinois’ family farms. Not only are you protecting your interests today, but you’re creating opportunities and strengthening our industry for future generations to come.
IL Corn believes that a rising tide raises all ships. We are excited to offer this GrassRoots Orientation to Washington D.C. to empower our members and help us make a positive impact for all of Illinois agriculture.