What is the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA)?
The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) checkoff and membership programs represent more than 43,000 soybean farmers across Illinois. These programs are designed to support farmers by funding market development, soybean production, and government relations efforts. The membership program, known as Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG), actively advocates for legislation that benefits farmers at local, state, and national levels. ISA’s mission is clear: to be a trusted partner for Illinois soybean farmers, ensuring their profitability today and for generations to come. It’s all about promotion, advocacy, research, and education—working hand in hand with farmers to secure a strong future.
Main Benefits of the ISA Programs
Here are some key figures and facts that highlight the impact and scope of ISA’s work:
- Represents over 43,000 soybean farmers in Illinois.
- Farmers contribute 0.5% of the net market price per bushel sold to the checkoff program.
- Half of the checkoff funds go to the United Soybean Board (USB), while the other half is managed by Qualified State Soybean Boards (QSSBs) like ISA.
- ISA’s Board of Directors includes 24 volunteer farmers—18 District Directors and 6 At-Large Directors—elected statewide.
- In FY21, ISA invested in research to improve soybean yields and partnered with suppliers, merchandisers, and logistics companies.
How ISA Supports Soybean Farmers
Since the mid-1960s, ISA has been serving the needs of soybean farmers throughout Illinois. It’s a long history of commitment, and today, ISA continues to focus on improving profitability for all Illinois farmers. The organization works closely with farmers to understand their needs and challenges, ensuring that every effort is aligned with what truly matters on the ground. It’s not just about growing soybeans—it’s about growing success for the entire farming community.
Collaboration with National Soybean Organizations
ISA doesn’t work in isolation. It partners with three national soybean organizations to meet growing demand, develop new uses for soy products, expand export markets, and shape national policy. These collaborations ensure that state-level efforts are coordinated with broader industry goals, creating a unified approach to advancing soybean agriculture. This teamwork helps Illinois maintain its leadership role in the soybean industry.
Illinois: A Leader in Soybean Production
Illinois stands out as a powerhouse in soybean production, with a massive economic impact. The state’s soybeans contribute to a global food supply, provide essential feed for animals, and support sustainable biodiesel production, among other uses. This leadership role is not just about quantity—it’s about quality, innovation, and meeting the needs of markets worldwide. Illinois soybeans truly make a difference on a global scale.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger – Supporting global food supply through soybean production.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – Enhancing profitability and livelihoods for farmers.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Investing in research and new uses for soy products.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Promoting sustainable biodiesel and efficient supply chains.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
Governance and Farmer Representation
The ISA Board of Directors is made up entirely of volunteer farmers, which means those who understand the industry best are steering the organization. With 18 District Directors representing specific regions and 6 At-Large Directors representing the entire state, the governance structure ensures that diverse farmer voices are heard. This democratic approach helps ISA stay grounded in the realities of farming life while making strategic decisions that benefit all Illinois soybean producers.
