Want to get involved in planning export market development work for U.S. agriculture? The U.S. Grains Council’s (USGC’s) Advisory Teams (A-Teams) are designed to do just that, harnessing the vast expertise of U.S. producers to further hone its global programming strategy.
Applications for the 2025-2027 term are open, and the deadline to apply is April 30, 2025.
Grain producers and agribusiness representatives serve together on the Council’s seven A-teams to identify opportunities, set priorities and chart the course for the organization each year. It’s an opportunity for USGC members to have hands-on input by contributing their experiences to channel the Council’s mission of developing markets, enabling trade and improving lives towards growing demand for U.S. products.
A-team members serve two-year terms, renewable without limit at the discretion of the chairperson.
Each A-team has a specific focus: Asia; Innovation and Sustainability; Ethanol; Middle East/Africa/South Asia; Trade Policy; Value-Added Programs and Western Hemisphere. Each A-team is comprised of a member leader, board of director liaison and USGC staff liaison who work in tandem to communicate the activities and recommendations of the A-team.
The incoming USGC chairman will make and announce A-team appointments before the USGC Board of Delegates meeting, held July 30-Aug. 1 in Grand Rapids, MI, and the new A-team members will begin their terms on Aug. 2.
“Members are the foundation of the Council and its work, and we count on the expert contributions of our A-Team members to help inform the Council’s export development strategies in markets around the world,” said Rebecca Starrett, USGC manager of industry relations. “If you’ve been wanting to get more involved and connect further with Council staff and your fellow members, this is the chance to add your voice to the conversation.”
To apply, please return your completed application to Rebecca Starrett at rstarrett@grains.org with “A-Team Application” in the subject line by April 30.
Learn more about A-Teams and download the application form here.
About The U.S. Grains Council
The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum and related products including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol. With full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture’s profitability. Detailed information about the Council and its programs is online at www.grains.org.