(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) – The Foundation for Soy Innovation bridges resource gaps for the next generation of problem-solvers working within the soy value chain.
The Foundation for Soy Innovation scholarship program is back, bringing opportunities for college-aged students to further their education and interest in the soybean industry. The scholarships, made possible by contributions from Missouri’s farmers, support students and early-career faculty who are working along the soy value chain, from agronomic research to developing new soy-based products.
The foundation exists to advance the technology, ingenuity and partnerships integral to the future of soy at every stage in the process. From innovation in how farmers produce soy to elevating the ways we put soy to work and developing environmentally friendly soy-based products, there are great opportunities ahead.
Through this scholarship program and other efforts, the foundation and its partners support the academic and professional development of the next generation of leaders in the soybean sector. The foundation is led by farmer leader and longtime seedsman Matt McCrate of Cape Girardeau.
“One of the primary initiatives of the foundation is to develop scholarship programs for hands-on experience to advance innovation and create demand for soy,” McCrate said. “Through the foundation, we hope to engage stakeholders to build upon the work of Missouri’s soybean farmers in research, business development and marketing, and to educate and empower future generations working with soy.”
Last year, the foundation had the opportunity to present two students with scholarships, Eduardo Beche of the University of Missouri and Anthony Ribolzi of Missouri State University.
“We’re working to support those who need to be at the table to raise the bar on the work farmers are doing,” said McCrate. “Through this scholarship, we are investing in young students to discover new uses for soy and make Missouri a leader in soybean innovation.”
The foundation is pleased to offer $1,000 scholarships for 2022 for individuals positioned to make an impact on the future of the value chain. Scholarships are intended for advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, early career faculty and young professionals, and may be used for coursework, supplies, specialty training and/or participation in a professional conference. Applications are accepted now through Dec. 15, 2022.
To learn more about the Foundation for Soy Innovation, explore soyfoundation.org.