Ohio Cattlemen's Foundation Scholarships
Offered by Ohio Cattlemen's Foundation
About This Scholarship
The Ohio Cattlemen's Foundation is the charitable affiliate of the Ohio Cattlemen's Association, and each fall it opens a single application window covering roughly two dozen scholarships for students tied to Ohio's beef industry. Funding comes from distinctly Ohio sources: proceeds from the state's 'beef' specialty license plates power the Tagged for Greatness scholarships, while the annual Cattlemen's Gala fundraiser underwrites a dozen more $1,000 awards.
Beyond the general scholarships, the foundation funds named memorial awards, support for Ohio State livestock judging team members, and awards for veterinary students. It also offers a distinctive $1,500 'success grant' for a young person returning to the family farm, which can be used for farm equipment, cattle purchases, or trade-skill training rather than tuition - a rare acknowledgment that not every agricultural career runs through a four-year degree.
Applications for all programs are due October 31, and recipients are announced at the Ohio Cattlemen's Association Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet in January. Selection criteria vary by fund, with some emphasizing financial need and others weighting beef industry involvement and career plans.
Eligibility
- High school seniors and current college students enrolled in (or entering) a two- or four-year college or university
- Studying a beef or agriculture-related field
- Ohio students / Ohio beef industry connection (awards presented at the OCA Annual Meeting)
- Specific named funds may add criteria such as OSU livestock judging team membership or veterinary study
How To Apply
- Complete the online application forms on the Ohio Cattlemen's Association website (ohiocattle.org) by October 31. One fall window covers all foundation scholarships and the returning-to-the-farm success grant; winners are announced at the OCA Annual Meeting in January.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can college students apply, or only high school seniors?
Both. High school seniors and current students at two- or four-year colleges studying a beef or agriculture-related field are welcome to apply.
What is the success grant?
Alongside its scholarships, the foundation awards a $1,500 success grant to a young person returning to the farm. Unlike a tuition scholarship, it can be spent on farm equipment, cattle, or trade-skill training.
When do I find out if I won?
Recipients are recognized at the Ohio Cattlemen's Association Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet in January.