FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
The Delaware Soybean Board (DSB) has approved a total of $124,273 in communications, promotions, and market-development projects for their 2026 fiscal year, reinforcing the Board’s commitment to strengthening demand for Delaware soybeans, supporting local farmers, and increasing public trust in modern agriculture.
The 2026 Communications & Promotions budget supports initiatives across four key focus areas: animal agriculture support, consumer education, emerging markets, and production. Together, these projects are designed to amplify the value of the soybean checkoff by expanding outreach to consumers, policymakers, and industry partners while ensuring Delaware soybean farmers remain competitive in a changing marketplace.
“Each of these projects reflects our responsibility to Delaware soybean farmers to invest their checkoff dollars strategically and responsibly,” said Tim Rogers, Chair of the Delaware Soybean Board. “From communications and education to market development and advocacy, these initiatives work together to protect and grow demand for soybeans while telling agriculture’s story accurately and effectively.”
To support key end users of soybean meal, the Board approved continued funding for animal agriculture initiatives that strengthen relationships across the livestock and poultry sectors and reinforce soy’s value as a critical feed ingredient.
This year’s funding also supports consumer education efforts, including outreach at the Delaware State Fair and regional programs focused on constructive conversations about food and farming. These initiatives aim to strengthen connections between farmers and the public.
The Board made significant investments in emerging markets and market development, such as export-focused programs through the American Soybean Association’s WISHH program and continued engagement with clean fuels organizations. These efforts help position U.S. soybeans for long-term growth in domestic and international markets, including renewable fuels and global trade.
Additionally, the Board worked to return these dollars to the famers contributing to the Checkoff program through several production-focused projects that directly support soybean growers, including sponsorship of Ag Week, the Delaware Soybean Yield Contest, grain bin safety outreach, and participation in national leadership programs. These initiatives are designed to promote best management practices, recognize producer excellence, enhance farm safety, and support continued learning and collaboration among soybean producers.
Funded by the soybean checkoff program, these projects align with the Board’s broader mission to enhance profitability and sustainability for Delaware soybean producers through research, promotion, and education. For more information about the Delaware Soybean Board, visit www.desoybeans.org.
About the Delaware Soybean Board
Delaware farmers plant about 150,000 acres of soybeans annually, producing over seven million bushels of beans and generating approximately $60 million in value to the state. The Delaware Soybean Board consists of nine farmer-directors and the Secretary of Agriculture. Funded through a one-half of one percent assessment on the net market value of soybeans at their first point of sale, the checkoff works with partners in the value chain to identify and capture opportunities that increase farmer profit potential.
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For information, contact:
Danielle Bauer
Executive Director
Delaware Soybean Board
443-812-4526
Danielle@desoybeans.org
www.desoybeans.org