What do corn, college sports, and farmer checkoff dollars have in common? The answer is the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series. In this episode, we’re joined by Joe Roberts, President of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board, to talk about why Iowa Corn invests in athletics, how the sponsorship builds consumer trust, and what it means for farmers and fans across the state.
This Farm4Profit Podcast episode highlights the powerful connection between agriculture and athletics through the Iowa Corn Cy-Hawk Series. Our guest, Joe Roberts, is not only the President of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board but also a third-generation Wright County farmer, Beck’s Seed dealer, and conservation advocate.
Joe shares his journey from growing up on the family farm to leading farmer-funded checkoff initiatives that promote corn’s role in food, feed, fuel, and fiber. We explore how the Iowa Corn Promotion Board uses the Cy-Hawk Series as a platform to connect with millions of fans, building both consumer awareness and farmer pride.
Key themes from the episode include:
The Cy-Hawk Story: What the series is, which sports are included, and why it’s such an iconic rivalry in Iowa culture.
Checkoff Dollars at Work: How farmer checkoff investments make sponsorships possible and the tangible value they bring back to the farm.
Beyond the Stadium: How Iowa Corn uses the event to educate consumers on corn’s role in everyday life, from renewable fuels to livestock feed.
Conservation & Leadership: Joe’s perspective as a young farmer balancing tradition, conservation practices, and leadership roles in Iowa ag.
The conversation wraps with Joe’s message for both farmers and consumers: that checkoff programs and community partnerships help secure the future of agriculture while strengthening the connection between the farm gate and the dinner plate (or tailgate).