National Cattlemen Foundation Supports Students In Beef Education
The National Cattlemen’s Foundation (NCF) has opened applications for the 2026 CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship, offering ten scholarships worth $1,500 each to students pursuing careers in the beef industry.
Sponsored by CME Group and administered by NCF, the scholarship aims to identify and support talented students who will contribute to the sustainability, innovation, and leadership of the beef sector.
Since its establishment in 1989, the program has encouraged young people to explore diverse roles in the industry, from research and production to education and communication.
“We are pleased to partner with the National Cattlemen's Foundation and National Cattlemen's Beef Association to continue our support of the CME Group Beef Industry Scholarship program,” said John Ricci, CME Group managing director and global head of agricultural products.
“CME Group has played a role in agribusiness for the past 180 years, and we are honored to keep that tradition going by supporting the future leaders of this industry.”
Eligible students include high school seniors preparing to enter college and undergraduate students enrolled full-time in two- or four-year institutions.
Applicants must submit a letter outlining their career goals in the beef industry, a 750-word essay identifying an issue in the sector with proposed solutions, and two recommendation letters. Membership in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is required for applicants or their immediate family members.
The application deadline is November 7, 2025, with scholarship winners to be announced at CattleCon 2026, held February 3–5 in Nashville, Tennessee. Applications and additional information are available at www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org.
Established in 1972, the National Cattlemen’s Foundation is a nonprofit organization that promotes education, research, and leadership development in the cattle industry, ensuring a strong future for America’s beef community.