Valerie Smiley

The U.S. Grains Council develops export markets for U.S. barley, corn, grain sorghum and related products. The Council believes exports are vital to global economic development and to U.S. agriculture's profitability. Founded in 1960, the Council is a private, non-profit corporation with nine international offices and programs in more than 50 countries. Its unique membership includes producer organizations and agribusinesses with a common interest in developing export markets. Membership funds trigger matching market development funds from the U.S. government and support from cooperating groups in foreign countries to produce an annual development program valued at more than $25 million. The Council tailors its programs to meet individual countries'​ cultures and needs. Our technical programs teach livestock and poultry producers how to use feed grains effectively and manage their operations efficiently. Our trade servicing efforts educate potential and current customers about the U.S. marketing system, including financing, government programs, U.S. feed grains quality and prices. Our trade policy initiatives identify foreign barriers to U.S. feed grains exports.