U.S. Grains Council proposes name change to reflect expanded focus on bioproducts

USA – The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) has announced a proposal to amend its name to the U.S. Grains and Bioproducts Council (USGBC), signaling a strategic shift to encompass a broader range of bioproducts, particularly ethanol and related commodities.

The U.S. Grains Council continues to develop export markets for U.S. barley, corn, sorghum, and related products, including distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol.

With a full-time presence in 28 locations, the Council operates programs in more than 50 countries and the European Union, underscoring its pivotal role in promoting U.S. agriculture and bioproducts globally.

According to the Council, this proposal will be voted on August 1 during the organization’s 65th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Ryan LeGrand, USGC president and CEO, emphasized the significance of this change at the recent membership meeting in Austin, Texas.

“Ethanol and related products have become part of our identity in practice, but not in name, and it is time to signal to these new audiences that we have something to offer.” This move reflects the Council’s increasing involvement in the global energy sector, extending beyond traditional grain markets,” he stated.

The USGC has a history of evolving to meet industry demands. Originally established as the U.S. Feed Grains Council, it adopted its current name in 1998 to better represent its mission. The proposed rebranding aims to balance the Council’s 65-year legacy with its expanding focus on bioproducts.

Recently, the Council has intensified its efforts to promote ethanol and other bioproducts internationally.  It has been instrumental in advocating for increased ethanol blending in countries like Japan.

In November 2024, the Japanese government announced plans to achieve a 10% ethanol blend in gasoline by 2030 and 20% by 2040, aligning with its goal to be carbon-neutral by 2050.  LeGrand lauded this development, noting that the Council is ready and willing to support Japan and its transportation sector in any capacity to help the country meet its energy ambitions.

Additionally, the USGC’s Latin America office has proactively promoted ethanol blending across Central America and the Caribbean. In September 2024, the Council organized the third “Cultivando Energía” (Growing Energy) conference in Costa Rica, bringing together over 80 biofuel specialists and key stakeholders to discuss the future of biofuels in the region.

To further bolster its ethanol export initiatives, the USGC appointed Alicia Koch as the director of global ethanol export development in November 2024, bringing extensive experience from her tenure at Pivot Clean Energy Co. and POET, the world’s largest biofuels producer.

LeGrand highlighted her expertise, noting it would be invaluable as the Council explores emerging markets for biofuel applications, including sustainable aviation fuel and clean cooking solutions.

The proposed name change will necessitate amendments to the organization’s bylaws. If approved, the Council plans a phased rollout of updates to its online presence and physical signage to reflect the new identity.

This rebranding effort aims to accurately represent the organization’s comprehensive scope and its dedication to advancing the global bioproducts industry.

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