Program Eligibility
Program Description
The Illinois Agricultural Leadership Program (IALP) is an extensive business education and training program for agricultural producers and employees of agri-businesses. Through a series of in-state and travel seminars, participants interact with a myriad number of business, organization, elected, and educational leaders.
Mission and Goals
Agriculture is Illinois’ largest industry. Traditionally, its leaders have set the pace for innovative progress within the industry. However, today’s rapidly changing and increasingly global environment demands that agricultural leaders understand and stay abreast not only of changes within their industry, but of changes in society which impact that industry. The IALP was established to meet this important need. Its mission is:
¨ to develop knowledgeable and effective spokesperson to become policy and decision makers for the agricultural industry.
To attain its mission, the following goals were established:
· to increase and expand participants’ understanding of U.S. and international economic, political, and social systems.
· to enhance the participants’ communication and leadership skills.
· to increase the participants’ ability to make sound decisions on issues which will shape the agricultural community and beyond.
Commitment
The IALP format is specially formulated to accommodate men and women who have busy careers. In-state seminars are usually held Wednesday through Friday. Travel seminars are conducted in early/mid March. Seminars are not held during the spring crop planting or fall harvest seasons.
The program is intended to be intellectually challenging like an advanced university degree. Fourteen seminars (including an approximately 10-day national travel seminar and 14-day international travel seminar) are conducted over a two-year period. This format allows those selected to continue their farming or agri-business careers while expanding their knowledge and skills. Attendance at all seminars is mandatory.
The majority of program funding is received from business, organization, State of Illinois, and individual contributions. A $3,500 participation fee is required of those selected, payable in four installments. The fee can be paid by the participant, or he/she can arrange for local sponsorship. Assistance in identifying methods of financial support is available through the IALF office. Additional costs for some meals, transportation to in-state seminars, and personal discretionary expenses should be expected.
Participant Eligibility
· Men and women ages 25-49 (as of the date of application).
· Full-time employment in production agriculture or agri-related occupations.
· U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and Illinois resident.
· Demonstrated leadership qualities and potential.
· Commitment to attend all seminars, including travel seminars.
(Please note: Spouses and siblings of current participants cannot apply for or participate in consecutive classes.)
Participant Selection
Each class is limited to a maximum of 30 participants. Individuals are selected for the IALP based upon demonstrated leadership potential, commitment to leadership and for their diversity to represent the agricultural industry. The program builds on individual experiences, and introduces participants to frequently unfamiliar situations. Participants develop a close camaraderie and, most importantly, learn from each other.
The application period for the IALP spans from January 15 through March 30 of even numbered years. Interviews of all eligible candidates will be conducted during the following summer. All applicants will be notified as soon as possible following final selection.
IALP Funding
The IALP is sponsored by the Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation (IALF), a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization. Funding for the IALF is provided by participation fees, in-kind services and contributions from individuals, businesses, organizations, the State of Illinois and universities.
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