Strength in collaboration is the foundation for the Illinois Innovation Network, linking 15 hubs throughout the state that drive research in agriculture and other areas.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture will distribute more than $796,000 over the next three years to expand access to fresh, locally grown produce and boost the competitiveness of the state’s specialty crop industry.

Illinois Farm Bureau will host 14 Nutrient Stewardship Field Days this summer for farmers and industry partners to collaborate and discuss ongoing research and innovative approaches to nutrient stewardship.

AgriNews is launching a Community Marketing Grant program to help local businesses stretch their advertising dollars during this especially difficult time.

Through its Compeer Giving program, Compeer Financial awarded $19,750 to 20 Illinois farmers markets.

The dairy checkoff’s new online tool is designed to help dairy farmers and their advisers more easily identify grants and funding opportunities for conservation and on-farm improvements.

In an effort to elevate rural communities, Illinois Farm Bureau partnered with county Farm Bureaus to award 30 Rural Development Grants totaling $120,000 to support local projects across the state.

The Illinois Stewardship Alliance is encouraging farmers, food businesses, cooperatives and community organizations across the state to apply now for the fiscal year 2026 Local Food Infrastructure Grant program, with the enrollment period open through March 27.