Our vision is a thriving economy, equity and sustainability for Michigan, the country and the planet through food systems rooted in local regions and centered on food that is healthy, green, fair and affordable.

Per the USDA announcement on July 15, 2025, the Regional Food Business Centers program was terminated, prior to its original end date of July 2028. Because of this, the Great Lakes Midwest Regional Food Business Center halted operations on September 15, 2025 and was unable to responsibly launch the Business Builder Subaward and assistance programs. Please see our related press release.

Events

Oct 1

Applications for the 2026 Organic Farmer Training Program are now open!

October 1, 2025 – February 22, 2026 Scholarship application deadline is November 15. Applications for Detroit encouraged by November 15. Applications accepted until the cohort is full.

New farmers in can now apply for the 2026 MSU Organic Farmer Training Program in Detroit, East Lansing and our new site in Grand Rapids. More info at https://www.canr.msu.edu/organic_farmer_training_program/about/apply-now
Oct 16

MLFCN October Monthly Meeting 2025

October 16, 2025 10:00AM – 11:30AM

Join the Michigan Local Food Council Network for our monthly phone/video conference.
Oct 20

Scaling Production & Creating a Healthy Workplace with Green Wagon Farm - TOPP Partner Event

October 20, 2025 4:00PM – 6:00PM Green Wagon Farm, 4960 Quiggle Ave, Ada, MI, 49301

Join us for a farm tour, presentation & Q&A with Green Wagon Farm, hosted by Real Organic Project & TOPP. Learn how Heather & Chad Anderson scaled veggie production, built a strong team, and fostered a healthy workplace for long-term success.

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News

Apply now for SARE Partnership Grants and SARE Professional Development grants

Published on October 2, 2025
Two grant programs support farm educators and agriculture professionals to address sustainable agriculture issues through collaboration with farmers or train-the-trainer projects.
Protecting animal health by strengthening farm biosecurity

Published on September 26, 2025
Healthy farms mean healthy communities. MSU Extension’s new resources and training make it easier for you to take simple steps that protect animals and keep Michigan agriculture strong.
Indigenous farmers needed for soil health testing

Published on September 11, 2025
Michigan State University Extension is working to collaborate with Indigenous farms on quantifying what is living below ground.