Key Coop Cash Bids

About Key Coop

​​Key Cooperative is a member-owned agricultural cooperative that has been serving Iowa farmers since 1918. Established when local farmers united to collectively purchase essential goods and market their grain, the cooperative has evolved over the decades to meet the changing needs of its members. By the 1960s, Key Cooperative expanded its services to include specialized equipment for crop nutrient application and crop protection products. Today, it stands as a center for innovation and knowledge-sharing, committed to delivering proven and profitable strategies to its member-owners. ​

Throughout its history, Key Cooperative has marked significant milestones that reflect its growth and dedication to the agricultural community. In 1956, the cooperative constructed a 130,000-bushel grain elevator in Roland, symbolizing its commitment to enhancing grain storage capabilities. The 1980s saw further expansion with the acquisition of the Farmers Co-operative Company in McCallsburg and the establishment of Roland Transport. In 2010, the Newton Rail Center was built, underscoring the cooperative's focus on improving logistics and transportation for its members.

In March 2024, Key Cooperative's last wooden grain elevator, located in Roland, was demolished through a controlled training burn. This event marked the end of an era, as the structure had served area farmers for nearly seven decades. The cooperative expressed gratitude for the facility's service and emphasized its commitment to utilizing modern grain facilities to continue serving the community effectively. ​

Key Cooperative offers a range of grain marketing options designed to assist producers in managing price risk and capturing increased value. These options include Forward Price Contracts, No Basis Established Contracts, and Basis Only Contracts, each tailored to meet individual business needs. The cooperative emphasizes the importance of having a risk management and marketing plan, providing clarity and confidence in grain marketing decisions. ​

Beyond its core agricultural services, Key Cooperative actively supports local communities through various initiatives. The cooperative provides direct financial contributions to fund specific community needs, participates in the Land O’Lakes Matching Grant Program to double local grants, offers scholarships to deserving students, and partners with local FFA chapters through the Bushels for Ag program to provide hands-on grain marketing experiences. ​

As a cooperative, Key Cooperative operates on a model where profits are reinvested back into the organization or returned to its shareholders, aligning the interests of customers—its member-owners—with those who provide the goods and services they need. This approach ensures that the cooperative remains responsive to the evolving needs of its members and continues to contribute positively to the communities it serves.

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Key Coop FAQ

What is Key Cooperative?

Key Cooperative is a member-owned agricultural cooperative based in Iowa, providing a wide range of services to farmers including grain marketing, agronomy, feed, energy, and precision ag solutions. It has been serving Iowa producers since 1918.

Where is Key Cooperative located?

Key Cooperative serves central and northern Iowa through multiple locations, with its primary offices and services concentrated in agricultural communities throughout the region.

Who owns Key Cooperative?

Key Cooperative is owned by its members—local farmers and producers who use its services. Profits are reinvested into the business or returned to members in the form of patronage.

What grain marketing options does Key Cooperative offer?

Key Cooperative offers several marketing tools to help producers manage risk and maximize returns, including Forward Price Contracts, No Basis Established (NBE) Contracts and Basis Only Contracts.

What are the benefits of being a member of Key Cooperative?

Members benefit from access to essential ag services, the ability to influence cooperative decisions, potential patronage refunds, and a trusted partnership focused on profitability and sustainability.

What is the history of Key Cooperative?

Key Cooperative has a rich history dating back to 1918. It has grown through several mergers and facility expansions over the decades. Notable milestones include the construction of major grain facilities, establishment of transport operations, and the 2024 retirement of its last wooden grain elevator in Roland.

What industries does Key Cooperative serve beyond grain?

In addition to grain, Key Cooperative offers services in agronomy, energy (including fuel and propane), animal nutrition, and precision agriculture technologies.

How can I become a member of Key Cooperative?

Prospective members can contact their nearest Key Cooperative location for membership information and application details.