Program Aids Veterans Interested in Agriculture

Illinois Homegrown by Heroes

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is aiding veterans or current active-duty service members who are interested in a second career in our state’s number one industry, agriculture. The Illinois Department of Agriculture and The Farmer Veteran Coalition would like to invite you to become an Illinois Homegrown by Hero.

The Homegrown by Heroes program allows Illinois farmers, ranchers, fishermen and producers who have served or are still serving in any branch of the U.S. military to use a special logo on the agricultural products they sell to the public. This special designation sets these farmers apart in the market, allowing these heroes’ products to be visible to consumers while giving them the chance to tell their story.

The Homegrown by Heroes program is a free program for veterans, with a 3-year renewal. For those who qualify, the Homegrown by Heroes Illinois Product logo can be used to identify and market their Illinois grown, and Illinois made products on packaging, signage, websites, and social media or wherever their items are being sold. It also will grant access to the education and training offered through the program, everything from mentorships with experienced farmers to assistance developing value-added products.

The program is a collaborative effort between the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Illinois Farm Bureau and Farmer Veteran Coalition to thank military veterans for their service and to create meaningful career opportunities for current and former service members who want to become farmers and help feed our great nation.

To become an Illinois Homegrown by Hero please complete the application and return to Nicole.Moore@illinois.gov or mail to Illinois Department of Agriculture, State Fairgrounds, C/O Nicole Moore, Bureau of Marketing, Promotion and Grants, P.O. Box 9281, Springfield, IL 62794 or call (217) 524-9129.