The future isn’t like a combine on autosteer, locked into a set GPS-guided path. It’s more like an uncharted field, ready for us to map out, understand and explore. And though we can’t predict every challenge as we progress through the planting, growing and harvest seasons of 2025, there is one thing we know for sure: Illinois soybean farmers will tackle complexities by embracing production innovations and technologies that have been thoroughly field-tested and proven effective.

Farmers can’t always control what’s next and, let’s face it, this year there are sure to be obstacles including commodity prices, weather and global markets. But if we step back for a moment, we see we are positioned to handle them all. In Illinois, we continue to lead the nation as the top soybean-producing state. Although that sets an optimistic tone for this year, we also must consider that the choices we make now will help set the course for how competitive, sustainable and resilient our farms are in coming decades.

Staying Ahead of the Curve
Every farmer has his or her own vision for success—some dream of building multi-generational legacies, while others focus on efficiency or sustainability today. As the largest farmer-led soybean organization in Illinois, ISA is uniquely positioned to offer programs that ensure a promising future, including:

• Research and Innovation: ISA invests in everything from disease-resistant seeds to sustainable production practices, helping you stay ahead of the curve.
• Market Expansion: Through key partnerships, ISA works to secure new buyers and new uses for Illinois soybeans.
• Legislative Engagement: Whether it’s communicating with legislators about the need for improved infrastructure or farmer-first policies, ISA stands ready to fight for the issues that offer the greatest ROI for Illinois growers.

Technology as an Ally
Ag technology can be a game-changer when implemented strategically, after it earns its stripes in the field. Across the state, a growing number of soybean farmers are incorporating precision agriculture tools and practices such as variable-rate planting, nutrient management and yield monitoring. These technologies aren’t just for show—they’re directly tied to both current and future increases in crop revenue and environmental stewardship.

As you create your future, the choice isn’t whether to embrace technology but how to purposefully integrate it at the right time. Ask yourself: Does the technology pay? Is your farm capturing the full value of precision tools? Are you collaborating with trusted advisers to refine and tailor your approach?

What’s the Role of Collaboration?
When it comes to creating your future, you must consider the marketplace, but you don’t have to do it alone. Partnerships and networks strengthen our prospects for market success. ISA excels in connecting farmers with industry leaders, researchers and policymakers. For instance, our B20 Club is a collaboration between soybean farmers and fleet operators to expand the use of biodiesel. Every gallon of B20 consumed supports Illinois soybean demand while reducing greenhouse
gas emissions by up to 20 percent.

On a larger scale, ISA is seeding future opportunities through support of Soy Excellence Centers in partnership with the U.S. Soybean Export Council. Located in emerging markets for Illinois soy in regions such as the Middle East, North Africa, Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa and the Americas, these centers build relationships and grow demand. This helps ensure that Illinois soybeans stay competitive on the global market, which accounts for roughly sixty percent of our state’s total soybean market. Each relationship abroad strengthens the prices we see at home.

Regardless of the future you want to create, the key to reaching it is to act deliberately. ISA’s program areas are designed with this in mind and with you in the driver’s seat. You select your journey forward and progress at the speed and time investment that works best for you.

The question isn’t whether change will come—it’s how we’ll prepare for it. With the right tools, the right mindset and the support of your llinois Soybean Association, we are on this journey with you in creating tomorrow’s success!