11111 - Soybean Farming
If you're involved in soybean farming or looking to understand the industry, knowing about NAICS code 11111 is essential. This code specifically categorizes businesses engaged in soybean cultivation, an integral part of the crop production sector vital to agriculture and food supply chains across the United States.
What is NAICS Code 11111 - Soybean Farming?
NAICS code 11111 represents the industry sector dedicated to soybean farming, which involves:
- Planting and cultivating soybeans
- Harvesting soybeans from farms of various sizes
- Production primarily for oil extraction, animal feed, and food products
This code helps classify businesses for government contracting, reporting, and statistical purposes, ensuring clear industry standards.
Sector: Crop Production
Soybean farming falls under the broad Crop Production sector, which includes all types of agricultural activity focusing on crop cultivation. Within this sector, NAICS 11111 zeroes in on soybeans, recognizing them as a major crop with significant economic and nutritional value.
Typical Business Types Under NAICS 11111
Businesses and operations commonly identified under NAICS code 11111 include:
- Commercial Soybean Farms: Large-scale farms focused on high-volume soybean production for commercial markets.
- Organic Soybean Growers: Farms dedicated to cultivating soybeans using organic practices without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
- Contract Soybean Producers: Farmers who grow soybeans under contract agreements with processors or food manufacturers.
These enterprises play critical roles in supplying raw soybeans for industries ranging from food production to livestock feed and biofuel manufacturers.
Size Standards for NAICS 11111
For government contracting and SBA eligibility, the size standards for NAICS code 11111 are typically based on:
- Annual Revenue: Up to $750,000 in average annual receipts (subject to updates; always check SBA guidelines).
- Employee Count: Not commonly used as a size standard for crop production; revenue is the primary measure.
These size standards determine eligibility for small business programs, grants, and contracts relevant to soybean farming operations.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 11111
Here are some examples representative of NAICS 11111:
- Sunny Acres Organic Soybeans, LLC - An organic soybean farm in Iowa producing non-GMO soybeans.
- GreenField Soybean Producers - A cooperative of commercial soybean farmers supplying oilseed processors.
- MidWest Contract Soybean Growers - Individual producers growing soybeans under contractual agreements from local food manufacturers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What products come from soybean farming?
Soybeans are primarily grown for oil extraction used in cooking oils, biodiesel, and industrial products. They are also processed into animal feed, tofu, soy milk, soy flour, and various food ingredients.
Is soybean farming considered sustainable agriculture?
Yes, many soybean farmers employ sustainable practices such as crop rotation, reduced tillage, and organic farming methods to maintain soil health and reduce environmental impact.
How important is NAICS 11111 for government contracts?
NAICS 11111 is critical for businesses seeking government contracts or grants specific to crop production or agricultural commodities, as it clearly defines eligibility and sector classification.
Can small farms qualify under NAICS 11111 size standards?
Absolutely. Many small and mid-size farms fall within the SBA's small business size standards for soybean farming, allowing them to access specialized programs and contracting opportunities.
Conclusion
Understanding NAICS code 11111 - Soybean Farming is vital for anyone involved in or interested in the soybean agricultural sector. Whether you're a commercial grower, an organic farmer, or a contract producer, this classification helps position your business within the broader crop production industry and opens doors to government resources and opportunities.
Stay informed about NAICS codes and size standards to maximize your farm's potential in today's competitive agricultural market.
