CattleCon opens anthem, students, scholarship applicants

CattleCon 2026 is heading to the heart of downtown Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 3-5, along with opportunities to join the largest cattle industry event of the year. Applications are being accepted for the NCBA National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook, internships, and scholarships.

National Anthem Contest

The 13th annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook, is accepting entries through Oct. 15. The contest winner will perform the “Star-Spangled Banner” at the event’s Opening General Session and will receive round trip airfare to Nashville, a hotel room for three nights, complimentary convention registration, plus a pair of boots, jeans and a shirt from Roper or Stetson.

Any member or family member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, American National CattleWomen or Cattlemen’s Beef Board is eligible to participate in the contest. Previous NCBA National Anthem Contest winners are not eligible. The top four finalists will be chosen by Oct. 21, and videos will be posted to the CattleCon website. Voting will be open to the public Nov. 1-15 (one vote per person per day), and the winner will be announced Nov. 18.



Convention internships

NCBA is offering college students a unique behind-the-scenes experience through its annual convention internship program. Selected interns will be responsible for setting up the indoor arena, assisting at committee meetings and Cattlemen’s College, posting on social media and contributing in the NCBA booth. This one-of-a-kind opportunity offers college students the ability to network with industry stakeholders throughout the beef industry and gain valuable experience. Students also receive a one-year NCBA student membership.

Student interns must be able to work Feb. 1-6, 2026, provide their own transportation to Nashville, and be at least a junior-level college student at an accredited university at the time of the event. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA, should be well-versed in all areas of social media, and preferably have a background in, or working knowledge of, the cattle and/or beef industry.

Interested students must complete an online Student Internship Application by Oct. 15 and submit college transcripts, two letters of recommendation and a resume.

Scholarship opportunities

Young beef producers, students, farmers and ranchers interested in attending CattleCon 2026 can apply for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients receive a complimentary Education Package registration and discounted housing accommodation for three nights. This is a great way for youth, first-timers and others to expand their network at the largest event in the beef cattle business. The application deadline is Oct. 15.

Rancher Resilience Grant

Cattle producers attending CattleCon 2026 are also eligible to apply for the Rancher Resilience Grant, which provides reimbursement for registration and up to three nights hotel. For more information and to apply, visit the website here.