The Animal Agriculture Alliance is accepting applications for its 2026 Animal Ag Allies program, a training initiative designed to equip farmers, ranchers, veterinarians and industry professionals with advocacy skills. The spring enrollment deadline is March 2.
Launched in 2020, the program has trained nearly 170 participants who have consistently rated its overall value and usefulness as a 5 out of 6. The two-phase program includes five self-paced online modules and continuing education webinars focused on engagement strategies and emerging issues.
Participants have eight weeks to complete modules covering animal agriculture sectors, hot topics, contentious issue management, social media growth and public outreach. Graduates gain access to a private online group for ongoing interaction with other advocates.
“Research has shown time and time again that the most effective ambassadors we have within animal agriculture are those on the farm every day,” said Abby Kornegay, director of issues and engagement at the Animal Agriculture Alliance.
Two enrollment periods are available in 2026. Spring modules run March 31 through May 29, while fall modules open Aug. 3 and run through Oct. 2, with a July 13 application deadline.
The program is supported by founding sponsor Zoetis and sponsors including the Animal Health Institute and National Pork Producers Council.
