The Indiana Corn Growers Association Board of volunteer farmer Directors is proposing a modernization to the Corn Checkoff Law (IC 15-15-12) for the 2026 Indiana legislative session. Among other minor changes, this update will include broader grower accessibility to Board elections and a checkoff rate adjustment to keep up with inflationary pressures and other Midwest states.

The rate hasn’t changed since 2007. Inflation over the past 17 years has steadily eroded checkoff value, limiting investments in key areas like disease research and trade partnerships. The pressures of South American competition, rising on-farm sustainability requirements, lower commodity prices and disease make it even more important.

What does this mean for farmers?

The proposed rate will change from one half of one cent to one-fourth of one percent of the net selling price of corn per bushel. By changing from a flat rate to a percentage, the corn checkoff shares the risk with the farmers. This change would not remove a farmer’s right to a refund.

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Vincennes, Ind.

Susan Brocksmith

“Every dollar invested in the checkoff is put to work for farmers—whether it’s through research, market access, or new uses for corn. It’s about making sure our industry remains strong and profitable for the next generation.”

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Greensburg, Ind.

Tim Gauck

“As president of the Indiana Corn Marketing Council and a fellow farmer, I want to continue making the most of every checkoff dollar. There is always more work to do in supporting market development, funding critical research, or enhancing educational opportunities.“ I am supportive of efforts made by ICGA to do more to deliver strong returns on my investment.”

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Seymour, Ind.

Matthew Lucas

“The checkoff isn’t some distant program—it’s led by farmers, for farmers. As a board member, I take my role seriously in making sure these dollars are invested wisely to generate real returns for Indiana growers.”

What are some Indiana checkoff successes?

Since 2007, ethanol production has grown to use 470 million bushels per year – a critical market for corn. About 400 pumps offering higher blends of ethanol have been installed.

Indiana Corn Checkoff has invested in critical research to combat dozens of diseases, weeds, and pests that challenge our farms—like Mycotoxins and Tar Spot. ICMC made possible the Purdue Corn and Soybean Innovation Center in West Lafayette, where critical research is being conducted.

In 2024, ICMC engaged directly with over 750,000 consumers about corn through its outreach and education programs.
In 2024 alone, ICMC hosted 12 trade teams representing 22 countries and directly engaged with promotion activities with international markets in 30 countries.

Find other success stories here.

How does Indiana’s checkoff rate compare to other states?

Indiana’s checkoff budget falls short compared to other states. Indiana is the 5^th largest producer of corn, yet is 8^th in total checkoff budget.

*Note*: *Nebraska updated its checkoff assessment to 1 cent per bushel in 2024, increasing its total checkoff assessment*
*to over $15 million*.

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Indiana Corn Farmers: We Need Your input

ICGA is updating the Corn Checkoff law to better serve you. Proposed 2026 changes include:
✔ Easier access to Board elections
✔ Stronger Board eligibility and accountability
✔ Updated rate to reflect today’s economy

Take survey

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FAQ Document

Have questions? Read our frequently asked questions document here.

LEARN MORE

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Background Information

Find out more information about the Indiana Corn Checkoff 2026 Modernization.

LEARN MORE

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2024 Annual Report

The ICMC Board directs investments into programs and services to bring a strong return back to you and your farm. See the snapshot of year-end results here.

Learn More

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Checkoff Awareness

Hear Brian Warpup, an ISA Board Member and farmer from Warren, Ind., discuss the importance of these investments and the impact they have on farmers and the soybean and corn industries.

Watch the Video

Corn Checkoff Modernization