2026 NPB board members and staff
U.S. peanut growers on the National Peanut Board (NPB) unanimously approved the proposed fiscal year 2027 (FY-27) Program of Work and $13.1 million budget during the 2026 Board Meeting that took place from July 27 – 30 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Building on the strong progress of FY-26, representatives of peanut-growing states aligned on the organization’s strategic direction for the fiscal year that will begin November 1, 2026.
Board members discussed NPB’s industry-unifying “It’s Not Nuts. It’s Peanuts.” brand platform and its corresponding launch campaign that rolled out mid-May. They evaluated how the platform has already started elevating consumer awareness of the unique value proposition of U.S.-grown peanuts, and reviewed areas of opportunity to continue the exciting momentum.
The Board approved NPB’s proposed FY-27 Program of Work and associated budget, which outlines the planned investments across promotion, research and education. The plan will advance NPB’s steadfast commitment to increasing consumer demand of American peanuts while further accelerating production research.
For the upcoming fiscal year, NPB will focus on how peanut products fuel performance, specifically targeting Gen Z in spaces where they spend most of their time. Consumer promotion investment will prioritize a consistent presence across sports partnerships, social media, connected TV, influencer engagements, retail marketing, experiential moments, college campus programs, and much more. NPB will pursue new initiatives to reach more parents and healthcare providers about early introduction and peanut allergy prevention, while engaging foodservice professionals to expand peanut presence on school, college, and university menus. The Board will also continue its intentional support of innovative peanut research projects.
“Every decision made during this meeting was centered on creating long-term value for our fellow peanut farmers,” said Neal Baxley, chairman of the National Peanut Board. “Our collective support of groundbreaking programs is building confidence in a more prosperous future for this industry.”
In addition to strategic planning sessions, Board members participated in a South Carolina agricultural tour to learn more about the state’s rich agricultural heritage and community impact. Stops included the South Carolina FFA Camp, L.W. Paul Living History Farm and the Horry County Museum, providing members with valuable perspectives on the region’s local agriculture.
“We’ve had a major year creating the consumer brand of USA Peanuts,” said Ryan Lepicier, President & CEO of the National Peanut Board. “This meeting was a critical moment to reflect on all we’ve achieved together and align on our ambitions for another big year of driving substantial results.”
The FY-27 Program of Work and budget will be submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture for review and approval. For more information about the National Peanut Board and its initiatives, visit www.nationalpeanutboard.org.
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About the National Peanut Board
The National Peanut Board represents America’s peanut farmers and administers a national research, promotion and education program funded by U.S. peanut producers. Through strategic investments in nutrition, production research, consumer marketing and industry outreach, NPB works to build demand for U.S.-grown peanuts and peanut products while supporting the long-term success of peanut farming families.
