What Does My Checkoff Fund: U.S. Grains Council

April 27, 2021
A field of corn plants growing in the sun.

The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. corn, ethanol and distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) via their presence in 28 international locations and programs in more than 50 countries. The Illinois corn checkoff funds the U.S. Grains Council to assist in these efforts.

 

Trade is the number one market for Illinois corn. Our competitive advantage in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers makes Illinois farmers a lowest cost transporter of corn, ethanol, and DDGS to international locations. Because of this demand driver, a good portion of your checkoff dollars fund the U.S. Grains Council to keep international markets open and eliminate trade disputes when they occur.

Currently, Ridgway, Illinois farmer Jim Raben is Chair of the U.S. Grains Council.

 

Watch this recently released video to learn more about our important partner.

Valentine's Day Corny Card
By Tara Desmond February 11, 2026
From chocolates to fuel tanks, discover the surprising ways corn connects to Valentine’s Day and find thoughtful gift ideas for your favorite farmer.
IL Corn is made up of ICGA and ICMB
By Tara Desmond February 11, 2026
Discover how ICGA and ICMB serve Illinois corn farmers through advocacy and checkoff investments—two roles working together as IL Corn.
graphic of John and steve
By Tara Desmond February 11, 2026
Feeding Illinois shares how farmers, food banks and volunteers work together through Farm to Food Bank and Grain for Good on IL Corn TV.
Aerial view of a busy port with cargo ships, cranes, and stacked shipping containers, with a body of water and city in the background.
By Lyndi Allen February 11, 2026
USMCA is known for being a trade success story for the various beneficial pathways that it provides for North Americans, which is why it must be fully enforced and renewed on time.
collage of pics of Chris Gould
By Tara Desmond February 5, 2026
Former Navy fighter pilot Chris Gould shares how military leadership, sustainability, and teamwork shape success on his Illinois corn farm.
graphic of where IL Corn goes
By Tara Desmond February 5, 2026
Illinois corn farmers invest checkoff dollars with one goal in mind: creating long-term value for every bushel grown.
Show More