Wisconsin Cattlemen Award $5K to Future Ag Leaders

Wisconsin's beef industry is investing in its next generation of leaders, and five students are about to get a financial boost toward their dreams.

The Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association just opened applications for its 2026 scholarship program, offering five $1,000 awards to high school seniors across the state. Applications are due by February 27, 2026.

The scholarships welcome students with backgrounds in beef, veal, or dairy farming who plan to attend college, technical school, or Wisconsin's Farm & Industry Short Course. While the program gives preference to agriculture majors and students staying in Wisconsin, it's open to anyone meeting the basic requirements.

Students need to be Wisconsin residents ready to start their post-secondary education. The application requires an essay, two recommendation letters, and an enrollment verification form from their high school office.

Winners get more than just money for tuition. They're invited to the WCA Summer Tour in June 2026, where they'll visit beef-related businesses and meet industry leaders at an awards ceremony. It's a chance to network with the people shaping Wisconsin's cattle industry and connect with fellow students passionate about agriculture.

The Ripple Effect

This scholarship program represents something bigger than five $1,000 checks. Wisconsin's cattle farmers are putting their money where their values are, ensuring the knowledge and dedication that built their industry gets passed to capable young hands.

Many rural students face tough choices about whether college fits into their plans to continue family farming operations. These scholarships signal that education and agriculture aren't opposing paths but complementary ones.

The WCA has built its reputation as a trusted advocate for Wisconsin beef producers, fighting for fair legislation and creating a positive business environment for cattle farmers. By extending that support to students, they're strengthening the entire agricultural community for decades to come.

Interested students can find the full application and details at wisconsincattlemen.com/resources/scholarships. Applications can be mailed to the WCA office in Verona or emailed to info@wisconsincattlemen.com.

Five students will soon discover their hard work paid off in more ways than one.