IL Corn Growers Association Opens Applications for 2027 Scholarships

The IL Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is now accepting applications for its 2027 Scholarship Program, which will award five $2,000 scholarships to students pursuing degrees in agriculture. Now in its fifth year, the program supports high school seniors and college students preparing for careers that will shape the future of Illinois agriculture. Applications are due January 31, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time.

“Every farmer I know got where they are because somebody invested in them along the way, whether that was a parent, a neighbor, a teacher or an organization like this one,” said Mark Bunselmeyer, ICGA President and Decatur, Illinois farmer. “That’s why we do this. Agriculture needs smart, committed young people in the field, in the lab, in the elevator and at the statehouse, and our members believe helping them get there is one of the best investments we can make in the future of agriculture.”

For past recipients, the scholarship has meant more than help with tuition. Haley Bode, a 2026 ICGA scholarship recipient, said the award reflects “recognition, opportunity, and responsibility.”

“Because of IL Corn, students like myself are able to truly succeed by focusing more on academic and professional growth rather than financial barriers,” Bode said. “This scholarship encourages me to give back to the agricultural community, whether through advocacy, education, or service. It reminds me that I am part of something larger, a network of individuals committed to advancing agriculture and supporting future generations. Ultimately, receiving the IL Corn Scholarship is both an honor and a commitment to continue learning and contributing to the future of agriculture.”

The scholarship is open to high school seniors and post-secondary students pursuing an agriculture-related degree. Applicants must hold an active ICGA membership, which may belong to the student, a parent or a sponsor such as a farmer or ag industry representative. Recipients are asked to attend at least one IL Corn leadership meeting or event within a year of receiving the award.

IL Corn scholarships are part of the National Corn Growers Association’s consolidated scholarship application, so students can apply for the ICGA scholarship and any NCGA national scholarships with a single form. Full eligibility details and the application are available at ilcorn.org/il-corn-scholarship.