Technical Abstract: Pearl millet has been grown in the U.S. for livestock forage for over 100 years. Research into grain applications for the southeastern U.S. was initially conducted to address environmental constraints of the region. Early results by growers and diverse industries in the southeastern U.S. have encouraged further development. Much of the grain is currently being sold into premium-value markets in support of the recreational wildlife and agro-tourism industries. As these local markets become saturated, increasing amounts of grain are entering the high-volume market for broiler rations. It is likely that ethanol production will be another high-volume market for the grain in the future. Expanding integration of pearl millet in U.S. production and use systems requires that the crop contributes measurable economic value or provides uses that cannot be met by alternatives. Production and use budgets are valuable guides to identify areas for research that will improve profitability for the agribusiness community.