10/15/2026 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/15/2026 11:17
Watertown, Wis. [October 15, 2026] - The Wisconsin Corn Foundation scholarship program supports graduating Wisconsin high school seniors planning to continue their education, as well as current students attending a university, college or technical school. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in agriculture, leadership experience, community involvement and a connection to Wisconsin's grain or corn industry. Students do not need to come from a farming background to apply.
"Investing in young people is one of the most important things we can do for the future of agriculture," said Loren Jesch of the Wisconsin Corn Foundation. "There are so many opportunities within our industry, and we want to help students who are passionate about agriculture take that next step in their education and careers."
Among the scholarships awarded is the Bob Oleson Award, recognizing an outstanding applicant who demonstrates exceptional leadership, dedication and commitment to agriculture. Named in honor of longtime Wisconsin corn industry leader Bob Oleson, the award celebrates his legacy of service and his passion for developing future agricultural leaders.
As in the past, students will benefit from a consolidated scholarship application process through the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). Simplifying the application process has been a priority for the Wisconsin Corn Foundation for several years, with the goal of making scholarship opportunities easier for students to access. Through the consolidated application, students can apply for Wisconsin Corn Foundation scholarships while also exploring additional scholarship opportunities offered through NCGA.
Students applying for Wisconsin Corn Foundation scholarships must submit a resume, academic transcript, one letter of recommendation and responses to short-answer questions. All applications and supporting materials must be submitted electronically. The deadline for the Wisconsin Corn Foundation scholarships is December 4, 2026; however, the deadline for NCGA scholarships is February 2, 2027.
To learn more about the scholarship program and apply, visit https://wicorn.org/about/wisconsin-corn-foundation/.
###
About Wisconsin Corn
Wisconsin Corn serves the state's corn growers through the Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board (WCPB) and Wisconsin Corn Growers Association (WCGA). The WCPB utilizes checkoff funds to develop and defend markets, fund research and provide education about corn and corn products. WCGA is a united, grassroots-driven member organization representing growers from across Wisconsin on important state and national agricultural issues in an effort to increase member profitability and opportunity. For more information, visit wicorn.org.