It’s not too early to start getting involved in CattleCon 2027, which is returning to downtown Nashville, Tennessee, for an encore performance, Feb. 2-4, 2027, with business meetings beginning Feb. 1. Applications are being accepted for the NCBA National Anthem Contest, sponsored by Norbrook®, Beef’s Got Talent, internships and scholarships.
National Anthem Contest
The 14th 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 as well as during the Thursday night event at the Ryman Auditorium, 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. 5-25 (one vote per person per day), and the winner will be announced Dec. 1.
Beef’s Got Talent
Singers, poets, dancers, musicians and others with unique talents are invited to apply for the Beef’s Got Talent competition during CattleCon 2027. Performers must submit a video by Oct. 15. The top three acts will perform on the Marquee Stage during CattleCon 2027, and the winner will be an opening act at the Ryman Auditorium on Feb. 4.
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, supporting event management and marketing, 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 Jan. 31-Feb. 5, 2027, 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 and 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 2027 can apply for a scholarship. Scholarship recipients receive complimentary full registration and discounted housing accommodation. 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.
CattleCon 2027 registration and housing open on Aug. 10. For more information, visit convention.ncba.org.
