The Kansas Grain Sorghum Commission approved a $1.56 million budget for fiscal year 2026 during its August 26 meeting, allocating funds to support research, market development and education initiatives amid difficult conditions for sorghum producers.
The commission, led by Chairman Brant Peterson of Stanton County, distributed funding across four strategic areas, with research receiving the largest share at $853,946. Additional allocations include $195,701 for market development, $260,265 for information and education, and $255,000 for administration and program support.
"This has been an especially tough year for sorghum growers," Peterson said. "We remain focused and determined to enhance profitability for Kansas farmers. Through our investments, our organization is working to diversify demand domestically and abroad."
The commission also approved its final installment to complete a $2 million obligation to the Collaborative Sorghum Investment Program, a genetic improvement initiative established in 2016.
"CSIP is a proven concept, which has turned into a game-changer for the U.S. sorghum industry centered here in Kansas," said Adam York, commission administrator. "We worked hard to secure millions in additional funds to accelerate the program and enable advanced sorghum research through 2036 and beyond."
The budget will fund initiatives from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026.
