Illinois Soybean Growers’ (ISG) core strength is representing growers’ interests in both Springfield and Washington. ISG has set the stage, educating legislators on issues that strengthen farmer operations and increase soybean market access. ISG ensures advocacy readiness to address issues as they arise.

Having this advocacy in place means you’re not just reacting when legislation or issues arise. Instead, you are proactive before the negotiation starts. As an ISG member, you have a collective voice that works on behalf of soybean farmers to protect not just you and your neighbors’ farm but also your freedom to operate.

ISG is governed by a group of 24 elected soybean farmers with operations across Illinois and is funded voluntarily (separate from the Illinois Soybean Board checkoff program). Farmers control the message and drive our advocacy.

When you join, you receive access to resources you might not otherwise have. Growers receive member-only content, which includes tools for decision making, marketing updates, trade developments and stay-in-the-know about legislation and regulation that can impact your farm. Members also receive Illinois Field & Bean magazine which provides key updates on what ISG and your checkoff are working on.

This information helps provide a steady flow of resources and information to assist you in making choices for your operation and determining how to mitigate your risks. Remaining engaged is the best way to advocate for the future of agriculture, and your membership sustains that engagement.

Networking Events and Tangible Benefits

ISG exists to elevate farmer voices and increase advocacy. We also have added benefits you can immediately use in your operation:

• Opportunities to connect with other farmers, industry professionals and policymakers at networking events, policy dinners, meetings across the state and, occasionally, in Washington.
• Coupons toward seed purchases at Beck’s Hybrids.
• Discounts from AGI, including AGI BinManager equipment and technology and rebates on AGI bins, equipment and sentinel buildings.
• Complimentary membership in the American Soybean Association.
• Discounts on gift cards from retailers such as Cabela’s at 10% off, customized with ISG branding.
• Scholarship opportunities for children and grandchildren of ISG members pursuing agricultural degrees.
• Discounts of $100 off your annual Commodity Classic registration.
• Free entry to the annual ISG Membership Dinner at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, at the I Hotel & Convention Center in Champaign. Engage with fellow members and industry leaders.

Whether you join ISG to gain greater awareness of regulatory changes, tap into best-practice tools, connect with other growers or support legislative efforts that matter to your farm, this organization has a seat at the table waiting for you when you’re ready.

Sustain agriculture and maintain your ISG membership today. Share your voice even as this year of uncertainty comes to a close—knowing that you have a line of defense prepared and ready to fight for you and your farm!

Email ashley.barry@ilsoy.org to place membership or for more information about membership opportunites, events and benefits. Join ISG at www.ilsoy.org/illinois-soybean-growers/.