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

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.