Market Development
Objectives
From making sure Illinois soybeans have reliable routes to markets, to connecting with trade teams from nearly every contintent (not much opportunity in Antarctica…yet), to partnering with animal ag groups, and finding new ways to use our favorite crop, ISA’s Market Development Committee is committed to securing and growing the value of soybeans at home and around the world.
Identify key existing global and domestic markets that show opportunity for substantial growth.
Increase number of new global and domestic markets for Illinois soybeans.
Metrics
- Increase Illinois soybean bushels exported to existing and new markets by 15% annually.
- Establish 300 annual touchpoints with existing domestic and international buyers.
- Establish 25 annual touchpoints with new domestic and international buyers.
Opportunities to Visit Farms
As the leading soybean producing state in the U.S., Illinois has unlimited opportunities to showcase our high-quality, high-yielding, sustainably-grown soybeans and the farmers who grow them. We invite trade teams and those involved in soybeans around the world to connect with us for a visit. ISA’s Market Development team has proudly hosted more than 14 trade teams totaling more than 200 representatives from around the world in the last year on Illinois farms and value the connections we make through these engaging visits.
Transportation
By road, rail, or river: Illinois soybeans have a competitive edge thanks to unlimited transportation options. To ensure continued growth and success in the global market, we look for solutions for Illinois’ aging infrastructure.
Domestic Use
Whether two–legged or four, we often say livestock is our number one customer. ISA proudly partners with several animal ag organizations to promote the use of soy as a high–quality protein for livestock right here at home.
Committee Members
Chairman
Jeff O’Connor earned a bachelor’s degree in Ag Economics from the University of Illinois, is a Certified Crop Advisor (CCA), and has recently earned a Sustainability Specialist certification. In addition, O’Connor has spent 25 years serving Kankakee County as a Director of the Soil and Water Conservation District. He routinely opens his farm to legislators, overseas grain buyers, college students and the urban community in order to share the story of modern agriculture.
An At-Large Director of the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), O’Connor serves as the Market Development Committee Chairman and as a member of the Finance Committee. He is also a representative for the Specialty Soya Grains Alliance (SSGA) and the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH).
Our Partners
