On Monday, the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) announced the opening of its Soy Innovation Center, designed to support and catalyze the State of Illinois’ goal to be a national leader in sustainable technology and innovation. The launch of ISA’s new Soy Innovation Center will enhance the state’s green reputation and spearhead the commercialization and expansion of new and existing sustainable, soy-based products as the globe transitions to a low-carbon economy.

Six respected crop advisors and agronomists have been selected to serve as ILSoyAdvisor Soy Envoys for the 2024 growing season. The agronomy and crop specialists will offer Illinois soybean farmers valuable insights, advice, and real-time updates via the ILSoyAdvisor Field Notes blog and Online Crop Report. The Soy Envoy program, funded by the Illinois Soybean checkoff program, helps empower Illinois farmers with the latest soybean production techniques, helping them achieve higher yields and increased profits while conserving the environment.

The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is now accepting project proposals for FY25 that strategically align with the organization’s key priority areas: market development, soybean production and communications. Proposals will be assessed on providing a return on ISA’s mission to uphold the interests of Illinois soybean producers and will be evaluated on their effectiveness in addressing the needs of Illinois farmers.

On February 1, the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) hosted its annual Soybean Summit at the I Hotel in Champaign, Ill. If you weren't able to attend or need a refresher on the initiatives taken on by ISA’s Soybean Production Committee, check out the replay on ISA’s YouTube channel!

The IL Corn Growers Association, Illinois Soybean Association, Illinois Farm Bureau and American Farmland Trust are seeking expanded state investment into a popular program designed to promote cover crop adoption throughout the state. The Fall Covers for Spring Savings Program provides a $5 per acre crop insurance premium discount for farmers who plant non-cash crops in the fall to promote soil health and keep nutrients in the field.

Five Illinois farm families were featured in a commercial during this year’s Super Bowl, emphasizing the fact that 96% of farms in Illinois are owned and operated by families. Although the commercial marks the end of the year-long “We are the 96” campaign, it aims to leave a lasting impact on consumers across the state. If you didn't catch it during the game, you can watch the commercial on Illinois Farm Families’ YouTube channel.