Who we are

The Boer goat, first developed by Dutch farmers in South Africa during the early 1900s, is globally recognized for its superior carcass qualities, rapid growth, and remarkable adaptability. When this premium meat goat breed was introduced to the United States in 1993, the American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) was established to promote, protect, and record the breed.

Building on the vision established by the American Boer Goat Association (ABGA), the American Boer Goat Foundation was created to drive the industry beyond mere breed registration toward a future of innovation, education, and market growth. By strategically investing in critical areas such as advanced genetic research, supporting the next generation through the Junior ABGA, and promoting the commercial viability of the Boer goat, the Foundation has consistently turned donor generosity into tangible, impactful results that strengthen rural economies and ensure a sustainable food system for all. Our history is defined by these proactive investments and a passionate community of breeders who, with your support, continue to pioneer a more robust and ethical agricultural landscape.

A woman in a colorful blouse interacts with a goat at a livestock show, with other goats and handlers in the background and a decorated barrier featuring floral patterns and the text 'ABGA Nationals 2023 Louisville Kentucky'.

Adult goat with brown and white fur and large horns standing on grass, looking at two smaller kids with similar coloring nearby.

Scholarships

Create a lasting legacy of support that empowers youth to develop into impactful and visionary future leaders within our industry. Growing up involved in the Boer Goat industry nurtures important values such as compassion, dedication, and a strong work ethic in our young people. Through this unique experience, they learn not only to become effective leaders but also innovative visionaries who can shape the future. For those young individuals who strive to transform their passion for Boer goats into a meaningful career, scholarships play a crucial role in making higher education more accessible and affordable.

A young girl being interviewed by a woman while a boy looks on near a goat at a livestock or county fair.

Group of seven goats standing on green grass with a fence in the background.

Research Programs

The goat meat industry has demonstrated substantial growth. In 2019, the United States consumed 2.06 million goats, representing a 150% increase since 2002 and a 320% increase since 1999. However, 70.6% of this meat is imported, underscoring the need for expanded domestic production. Meat goats are a relatively recent addition to US agriculture, with USDA data commencing in 2005. Initially, Spanish goats were utilized for brush control; however, the introduction of the South African Boer goat in the 1990s established it as the most popular breed, thereby propelling industry expansion. Presently, the Boer goat sector confronts challenges that necessitate educational initiatives and research endeavors to foster continued advancement. The Boer Goat Foundation is well-positioned to support the expansion of research and education in this area..

The Boer Goat Foundation supports a variety of research endeavors to advance the goat industry and the Boer breed, particularly focusing on solutions to unique challenges faced by producers and supporting progress for the future.

Event Sponsorship

Through the annual JABGA Regional Show Series and JABGA National Show, the ABGA engages with hundreds of youth who will become future producers in the industry, teaching industry relevant knowledge and skills, social networking and character development through competitions and educational opportunities. Events such as goat judging, public speaking, skill-a-thon, sales talk and the meat goat evaluation competition offer opportunities for youth to acquire leadership and communication skills, self-esteem, confidence, resilience, adaptability and problem-solving skills. These competitions allow youth to go beyond just exhibiting their animal in the showring, but aim to create an environment for youth to develop scientific knowledge of their animal including anatomy, nutrition, selection, and genetics to enhance their management skills of their animal. Additionally, the soft skills of public speaking, decision making, sales and financial knowledge are gained through these contests. This all ensures the development of our youth to succeed in not only the agricultural sector, but any field they may choose to go into.

A group of five people, four young boys and two women, standing in an arena with hay or straw flooring, each holding a goat by a ring on its collar during a livestock event. The background features a large American flag and decorative floral banners.

ABAGA National Show

The events drew approximately 1500 attendees annually, with over 150 youth entered in individual contests. Events were livestreamed and garnered over 40,000 views annually.

Event Numbers

JABGA Regional Show Series

2022-2023: 6 shows - Red Bluff, CA; Stillwater, OK; Spencer, IA; Greenfield, IN; Zanesville, OH; Abilene, TX; total of 295 exhibitors

· 2023-2024 Series – 7 shows - Salem, OR; Sterling, CO; Abilene, TX; Cookeville, TN; Lake City, FL; Spencer, IA; Greenfield, IN; total of 386 exhibitors

· 2024-2025 Series – 5 shows - Merced, CA; Sweetwater, TX; Perry, GA; Des Moines, IA, Greenfield, IN; total of 283 exhibitors

A NOTE TO OUR DONORS

The Foundation recognizes its responsibility to maintain both public confidence and private trust. The Foundation openly discloses information about its policies, activities, financial statements and other information that would provide a further understanding of its objectives and operations. In turn, the Foundation honors its obligation to maintain donor confidentiality and to pursue accepted business practices with regard to human resources, legal, real estate, financial and other matters.