Programs
Emerging Leaders Program
Ohio Corn & Wheat’s Emerging Leaders Program is designed for Ohio corn and wheat farmers who are ready to deepen their involvement with the organization, grow as advocates, learn more about board leadership, and take a more active role in representing their fellow farmers.
Through this two-day program, participants gain a deeper understanding of Ohio Corn & Wheat’s structure, priorities and impact, including the work of the Ohio Corn Marketing Program, Ohio Small Grains Marketing Program, and the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association. The program also serves as an important pathway for farmers who may be interested in being considered for future service on one of Ohio Corn & Wheat’s three boards.
Participants will engage directly with Ohio Corn & Wheat leaders, staff and fellow farmers while learning more about board governance, public policy, advocacy, market development, checkoff investments and the issues shaping the future of Ohio agriculture.
The Emerging Leaders Program helps participants build the knowledge, confidence and connections needed to represent Ohio agriculture beyond the farm gate while gaining a clearer understanding of how they can serve, lead and advocate on behalf of Ohio’s corn and wheat farmers.
Collegiate Policy Academy
The Collegiate Policy Academy connects college students with public policy leaders in Columbus and Washington, D.C., along with networking and professional development opportunities. The 2025 class was made up of 10 Ohio college-age students interested in exploring agriculture as a career after completing their education.
Objectives
- To develop future agricultural leaders, specifically interested in corn and small grains.
- To offer college aged students the opportunity to experience the national legislative efforts of growers.
- To introduce young student leaders to Ohio legislators in Washington DC.
- To allow collegiate agriculture leaders the opportunity to network with growers, state staff from other states, and get to know and interact with national corn and wheat staff members.
Obligations
Collegiate leaders selected for this program will be asked to commit to participation and attendance at various events including, but not limited to, the Washington, DC mission, professional development and networking events, as well as be a part of a two-day orientation prior to the start of their commitment.
Eligibility Requirements
- Undergraduate student currently enrolled in a college or university. Preference is given to students studying agriculture, public policy, or a related field.
- Member of the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association. Student memberships are available at a discounted rate and qualify you to apply for state and national scholarships. Learn about membership here.
Scholarships
Ohio Corn & Wheat invests $15,000 annually in the future of our industry by supporting the next generation. Our scholarship program encourages students in trade schools, colleges, and universities to pursue certificates or degrees in one of the many academic fields that support the future of the corn and small grain industries; area of study can include agriculture, business, communication, economics, education, policy, science, and technology.
Eligibility
You must be a member of Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association. You can apply for membership at time of application submission.
Applicants must be and enrolled as a student at a college, university, or technical school by the fall of 2026/2027 school year.
Eligible programs/majors/certificates include agriculture, business, communication, economics, education, policy, science, and technology (example: Welding, Agricultural Equipment Technician, Commercial Driver’s License Certificate: Class A) or related fields.
- Applicants must also demonstrate the desire to pursue a career related to the corn and wheat industry and/or agriculture.
- Applicants must have proof of legal residency in the state of Ohio.
- Scholarship funds are to be used directly for tuition, fees, and books.
- Scholarship funds will be awarded to the student.
- Scholarship will only be rewarded one time per person.
When applying for the Ohio Corn & Wheat Scholarship, you will also have a chance to apply for the National Corn Growers Association scholarship by filling out the NCGA consolidated scholarship application. Please make sure to select all scholarship selection applications that apply.
