GRASSROOTS FELLOWSHIP
Missouri Grassroots Fellowship
The Missouri Grassroots Fellowship is a collaborative, one-year experience for young soybean farmers from Missouri who possess a desire to learn more about the soybean industry, government action, and the market forces impacting agriculture. Through travel, networking and hands-on experiences, participants will strengthen their leadership skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the role they can play in supporting Missouri agriculture and rural communities.
Applications for the 2026-27 Fellowship are open now and can be found below! The deadline to apply is July 15.
Who should apply and participate?
The Missouri Grassroots Fellowship is designed for emerging leaders involved in Missouri production agriculture who are passionate about the future of the soybean industry and rural America. Ideal candidates are eager to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their understanding of agricultural policy and advocacy, and build relationships with fellow farmers and industry leaders.
Applicants should:
- Be actively involved in production agriculture;
- Have an interest in leadership development and agricultural advocacy;
- Be willing to actively participate in all program sessions and travel experiences; and
- Be a Missouri Soybean Association member in good standing.
One participant will be selected from each of Missouri Soybeans’ seven grower districts.
Why MO Grassroots Fellowship?
By completing the Grassroots Fellowship, participants will:
- Build relationships with soybean growers and agricultural leaders across Missouri and the U.S.;
- Gain firsthand exposure to policy, trade and market drivers impacting agriculture;
- Strengthen communication and advocacy skills;
- Better understand how organizations like Missouri Soybeans and the American Soybean Association work on behalf of farmers; and
- Join a growing network of agricultural leaders and alumni.
This Missouri Soybean Association program is made possible by the partial funding of the Missouri soybean farmers and their checkoff and the premier sponsor, Bayer Crop Sciences. Information is only for educational purposes and not intended to influence legislation or government policy.
2026-27 Program Dates
Throughout the year, Fellows participate in industry tours, leadership development opportunities, advocacy experiences, and major agricultural events across the country.
| Sept. 1 – 2, 2026 – Boone, IA | Program Kickoff |
| Jan. 25 – 26, 2027 – Jefferson City, MO | MSA Annual Meeting & Legislative Visits |
| Mar. 2 – 5, 2027 – New Orleans, LA | Commodity Classic |
| July 12 – 15 2027 – Washington, D.C. | American Soybean Association Board of Directors Meeting & Hill Visits |
Frequently Asked Questions
No, there is no cost to participate in Missouri Grassroots Fellowship (other than your time!).
Spouses are allowed at program events, but the participant will be responsible for their costs.
The typical Fellowship is made up of 7 participants – one from each of Missouri Soybeans’ grower districts, however, this may vary depending on the applications received.
No, no matter where you are in your leadership journey, we encourage you to apply!
Yes, all travel expenses are covered for program participants.
Questions about the Missouri Grassroots Fellowship? Contact Baylee Asbury, director of operations & engagement, at basbury@mosoy.org.
Interested in participating in the 2026-27 Grassroots Fellowship?
Applications for the 2026-27 Fellowship are open now and can be found below! The deadline to apply is July 15.
