Beef Promotion Grant

What Is a Beef Promotion Grant?

Beef checkoff dollars are invested to build demand for beef, with a strong focus on reaching millennial consumers—one of the largest and most influential audiences in today’s marketplace. Millennials actively seek information about their food, engage heavily on social media, and value transparency in how food is produced. To extend beef promotion beyond Ohio’s major metropolitan areas, Ohio beef producers voted in 2014 to increase the state checkoff to $2. This investment enabled the OBC Operating Committee to create the Beef Promotion Grant, a program designed to empower county cattlemen’s associations and county Farm Bureau groups to lead local, consumer-facing beef promotion and education efforts. Through this partnership, county groups bring creativity and community connections together with checkoff resources to reach consumers across Ohio—enhancing understanding of beef production and strengthening confidence in beef. 

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How Do We Apply? 

Beef Promotion Grants are designed for consumer-targeted promotional and educational events.
Applications are due quarterly on: 

• January 1 
• March 1 
• June 1 
• September 1 

Key details: Applications must be submitted prior to the event There is no limit to the number of applications a group may submit per year Grants are evaluated by the OBC Planning Committee and voted on at an OBC Operating Committee meeting Funding decisions are based on alignment with OBC’s current marketing plan and the National Beef Checkoff campaign Funding is available as long as program funds remain After the event, recipients must submit a summary report and invoice for the approved amount to receive reimbursement. 

What Types of Events Qualify? 

Eligible events must be consumer-oriented, non-agricultural, and promotional in nature. Examples include:  

• Beef sampling events 
• Beef cooking demonstrations 
• Farm tours Breakfast or dinner on the farm events 
• Youth education programs focused on animal care and beef’s journey from pasture to plate 
• Events involving local officials, media, or health professionals alongside consumers 

Both new and existing events may qualify. 

What Does Not Qualify? 

Grant funds may not be used for: 

• Equipment or operating expenses 
• Traditional projects such as fair trophies, awards, or scholarships 
• Grills or cooking equipment 
• Bedding or livestock-related supplies 
• Producer-only meetings or educational sessions 
• County fair sale buyer dinners 

Need Help Getting Started?

Interested in hosting a promotional event but not sure where to begin?

Contact Kelly Keirn, Manager of Consumer Programs & Digital Marketing, for guidance with planning or the application process.