The Grains Foundation and the National FFA Organization are now accepting applications for the International Collegiate Agricultural Leadership (I-CAL) program. The 12 undergraduate students for this year’s I-CAL mission will journey to Malaysia and Taiwan from May 16-28, 2010. The I-CAL program is intended for students who wish to continue their future education and career path in agriculture.

“The 2009 I-CAL mission changed my perception of the world. We have to embrace free trade and establish relationships in order to move commodities. Having my eyes opened to the world was pretty amazing,” said Michelle Euken, Iowa State University graduate and participant in the 2009 I-CAL mission to Vietnam and China. “I now understand the importance of market development and will continue to promote U.S. agricultural trade in my personal life and professional career.”

The Grains Foundation was established by members of the U.S. Grains Council in 1983, in an effort to improve world food availability and quality; to strengthen the role of the marketplace in resolving global supply and demand issues; and to build partnerships with agricultural producers, agribusinesses and governments in developing countries through market education programs. Knowledge gained by I-CAL participants will serve American agriculture as they become future leaders in production agriculture, agribusiness and related fields.

Jim Broten, chairman of The Grains Foundation, said, “The I-CAL program offers young agricultural professionals a unique opportunity to see the benefits of international trade firsthand. It is our hope they will become believers and promoters of international trade, as it benefits the whole world.”

Click here to find out more information about the I-CAL program and to apply. Please note that applications MUST be postmarked by Feb. 15, 2010.