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

Nov 1

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

November 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
Nov 15

Scholarship Deadline for the 2026 MSU Organic Farmer Training Program

November 15, 2025 9:30AM – 11:59PM

Apply by November 15 for 2 MSU Organic Farmer Training Program scholarships: 1. Detroit Farmer Scholarship for people in Detroit/Hamtramck/Highland Park 2. Transition to Organic Scholarship for farmers certifying as organic and working with a mentor
Nov 17

MSU Product Center New Client Intro Seminar

November 17, 2025 10:00AM – 11:30AM Online

This virtual seminar is designed to help prospective clients determine whether the MSU Product Center is the right fit for their business needs. Potential clients must attend one of these seminars to register as a client.

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News

MSU Extension launches new beginning farmer resource at Great Lakes Expo

Published on November 13, 2025
The Beginning Farmer Resource and Decision-Making Guide is a new jointly created resource from MSU Extension and USDA.
Building the Network: Michigan Farm to School and Early Care Network

Published on November 6, 2025
Join MSU Center for Regional Food Systems, National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, and Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities this November for an informational session on November 20, 2025.
Scholarships available to attend the Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo

Published on October 24, 2025
Join fellow food producers at the 2025 Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo. Scholarship applications are now being accepted for first time attendees.