ANKENY, IOWA (January 28, 2026) — President Trump held a rally in Clive, Iowa yesterday where he told attendees that Congress is “very close” to getting year-round approval for 15% ethanol. Grant Kimberley, executive director of the Iowa Biodiesel Board, issued the following statement:
“We thank Pres Trump for visiting Iowa, and we were encouraged to hear his strong support for ethanol, but we want to share the message that Iowa's biodiesel producers need that same level of commitment right now.
“While the President recognizes the importance of renewable fuels to Iowa's economy, ongoing delays on the Renewable Fuel Standard volumes and 45Z guidance on tax incentives are forcing our independent, locally-owned biodiesel plants to shut down or pause operations — and once they close, they may never reopen. These aren't just facilities; they represent local jobs, critical markets for Iowa soybean farmers, and energy independence built with rural capital and Iowa ingenuity. We need the Trump administration to finalize these rules immediately so our plants can survive, our farmers can thrive, and rural Iowa doesn't get left behind in America's energy future.
“We thank the president for his attention to these important issues for the biofuel and agriculture sectors.”
Kimberley noted that the president visited at a local restaurant before the rally and heard directly from attendees about the importance of domestic demand for soybeans and corn, including biodiesel and ethanol.
About the Iowa Biodiesel Board
The Iowa Biodiesel Board represents the biodiesel industry in Iowa, from the farmers who grow the feedstock, to production, through distribution to end-users. Founded by the Iowa Soybean Association, IBB operates an independent organization and board. The IBB works to promote the commercial and economic success of biodiesel in Iowa. For more, visit IowaBiodiesel.org.
