Illinois Agriculture and Leadership Foundation

About us

Developing knowledgeable and effective leaders to become policy and decision makers for
the agricultural industry.

Illinois agricultural leaders are dedicated visionaries and advocates driving innovation and sustainability in the industry. From farmers and ranchers to educators and policymakers, these leaders work tirelessly to advance agricultural practices, promote food security, and enhance the livelihoods of rural communities…

The World Depends on Illinois Agriculture.

Illinois ranks as one of the nation’s leading agricultural production states. With over 75,000 farms covering nearly 27 million acres, the state boasts a rich agricultural heritage. While many emerging leaders had the skills to grow and process food, there was a need for training in other aspects of agribusiness. In 1981 the IALF was established with the goal of preparing agricultural professionals to be successful leaders in ag. From the vast fields of the Midwest to the bustling markets, Illinois agriculture remains a cornerstone of the state’s identity and economic strength.

What does your donation do?

The IALF receives no state or federal funding. Instead, our leadership development program is
funded by visionary corporations, associations, alumni, and individuals who share our mission of
developing leaders for the food and agriculture sector. Share your passion for strong leadership
by providing a tax-deductible investment in the future of America’s safe, secure and cost-
effective food supply.

Participants head to Dubai.

Follow the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program Class of 2025 as their Leadership Journey takes them on the International Study Seminar to experience the culture and agricultural practices in Dubai and India.

Connecting all the right people.

We measure success through the results demonstrated by our graduates. Every day, American
agriculture is impacted in a positive and profound way by one of the nearly 600 graduates of our two-year leadership program. Participants and alums have access to our alumni network comprised of individuals accomplished in agribusiness and ag production, members of local,
state, and national government, educators, and community leaders.

Through this premier, leadership development program, participants will:”

Develop essential tools to enhance leadership skills and strengths.
Acquire strong communication skills.
Deal effectively, competently, and confidently with complicated issues and challenges that affect Illinois and national agriculture.
Understand, articulate, and confront different perspectives on issues or challenges.
Learn to convert a vision into action through effective and appropriate planning, communication, and motivation.
Strengthen effectiveness in organizing and utilizing teams.
Connect with ag leaders, educators, and public officials.

Apply Today

“This leadership program is open to persons age 25 to 49, who are actively engaged in some facet of agriculture in Illinois. Participants must commit to approximately 55 seminar days over the 19-month program, including a one-week seminar in Washington D.C. and a two-week international seminar. Candidates for the IALP must reside in Illinois or adjoining counties to Illinois, and whose sphere of influence is in Illinois Agriculture.”