The products of the GEM Project include new sources of germplasm that are available to all researchers free of charge through the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station (NCRPIS). Released germplasm is expected to have immediate utility for incorporation into corn breeding programs by the commercial and public sectors. Commercial products are expected to be derived from the progeny of GEM germplasm crossed to adapted lines. New research information will be generated and shared with the scientific community and includes (i) characterization of germplasm for agronomic performance and traits, (ii) breeding methodology for enhancement of un-adapted (exotic) germplasm, and (iii) germplasm with unique value-added traits (VAT’s) for further research applications, e.g. genomics research. Greater usage of released germplasm will ultimately broaden the germplasm base of maize. The GEM program may serve as a future model for germplasm enhancement of other crop species based on the degree of success achieved.