Board Unanimously Supports FY-26 Program of Work and Budget
The National Peanut Board (NPB) convened its July board and committee meetings on July 8–9, 2025, at the Kimpton® Hotel Arras in Asheville, North Carolina. During the session, board members unanimously approved the fiscal year 2026 (FY-26) Program of Work and a $13.42 million budget aimed at strengthening the future of the peanut industry.
Strategic Initiatives Target Growth, Education, and Innovation
Developed by NPB staff and shaped by stakeholder input, the FY-26 plan centers on expanding peanut promotion, research, and education. Major initiatives include:
- Creating a bold commodity brand for peanuts
- Targeting Gen Z consumers with fresh, relevant messaging
- Advancing peanut allergy prevention through the Little Peanut initiative
- Bringing peanuts back to schools and universities with “Something’s Missing”
- Strengthening thought leadership and storytelling within the industry
NPB Chair Casey Cox Kerr, a Georgia peanut farmer, emphasized the importance of aligning strategy with action:
“Through these sessions, we ensure we are delivering real value to growers and staying responsive to consumer and industry needs.”
Investing in Farmers and Public Health
The approved budget reflects the Board’s ongoing mission to improve the economic well-being of U.S. peanut farmers. It supports forward-looking research, peanut nutrition education, and marketing programs that aim to increase demand across multiple consumer segments.
Peanut Industry Gives Back to the Asheville Community
As part of the board meeting, NPB staff, board members, and their families teamed up with sandwich chain Which Wich® to prepare over 400 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for Meals on Wheels in Asheville. NPB President & CEO Ryan Lepicier praised the effort:
“We’re connecting people through food, supporting nutrition and fostering community. I’m proud of our team and the direction we’re headed in FY-26.”
Looking Ahead
The FY-26 fiscal year begins November 1, 2025, and concludes October 31, 2026. The proposed plan and budget are pending final USDA approval. For more details about NPB programs and initiatives, visit www.nationalpeanutboard.org.