11115 - Corn Farming
Corn is a staple crop with immense economic and agricultural significance in the United States. If you're involved in or curious about the corn industry, understanding NAICS code 11115 is essential. This classification provides insight into the businesses engaged in commercial corn cultivation, from producing grain to silage. Whether you’re a farmer, a government contractor, or an investor, knowing the details behind this NAICS code can enhance your opportunities in the agriculture sector.
What is NAICS Code 11115?
NAICS code 11115, titled Corn Farming, covers establishments primarily engaged in cultivating corn on a commercial scale. This includes:
- Growing corn for grain (used for food, feed, and industrial products)
- Producing seed corn for planting
- Growing corn for silage (used primarily as livestock feed)
This industry classification captures all commercial entities whose main activity revolves around the large-scale farming of corn.
Sector: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
Corn farming falls within the broader Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector (NAICS sector 11). This sector encompasses:
- Crop production
- Animal production and aquaculture
- Forestry and logging
- Fishing, hunting, and trapping
Within this sector, corn farming plays a pivotal role in meeting both domestic and international demand for food and bio-based products.
Typical Business Activities Under NAICS 11115
Businesses categorized under NAICS 11115 typically include:
- Commercial Corn Farms: Large-scale farms focused on cultivating corn for grain.
- Seed Corn Producers: Farms specializing in growing corn specifically used for seed production.
- Silage Corn Growers: Producers growing corn primarily for silage to feed livestock.
These businesses use advanced agricultural practices and equipment to optimize yield and maintain crop quality.
Size Standards for NAICS 11115 Eligibility
For government contracting and small business qualification purposes, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) sets size standards based on:
- Average annual receipts or
- Number of employees
For NAICS code 11115 (Corn Farming), the SBA size standard typically is:
- Up to 750 employees, or
- An average annual revenue threshold (check current SBA guidelines as thresholds may update).
Being aware of these size standards is critical for businesses seeking small business certifications or government contracts.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS 11115
Examples of businesses that operate under the Corn Farming NAICS code include:
- Family-owned commercial corn farms producing grain for regional markets.
- Agricultural cooperatives specializing in seed corn production supplying certified seed to growers.
- Large-scale silage corn farming operations supporting dairy and livestock industries.
- Agribusinesses employing precision agriculture to optimize corn yield and quality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS 11115 - Corn Farming
What types of products come from corn farming?
Corn farming provides grain used for food products, animal feed, ethanol biofuel, and seed for planting. Silage corn serves as livestock feed.
Is corn farming considered a small business under SBA standards?
Corn farms with fewer than 750 employees or less than the specified average annual revenue can qualify as small businesses under SBA size standards.
Can corn farming establishments participate in government contracts?
Yes, businesses classified under NAICS 11115 can pursue government contracting opportunities, especially if they meet SBA small business size standards.
Are genetically modified seeds included in corn farming?
Yes, seed corn producers growing genetically modified or hybrid seeds fall under the NAICS 11115 classification.
Does corn farming include organic corn production?
Yes, whether conventional or organic, commercial-scale corn production is covered under this NAICS code.
Conclusion
Understanding NAICS code 11115 - Corn Farming unlocks valuable insights into the commercial corn industry, from grain and seed production to silage crop growing. Operating within the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector, businesses under this classification range from family farms to expansive agribusiness operations. Stay informed on the size standards and typical business activities to maximize your opportunities in both the private and government contracting arenas.
Keywords: NAICS code 11115, Corn Farming, commercial corn farms, seed corn producers, silage corn growers, agriculture sector, government contracting, SBA size standards.
