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 6

Organic Pesticide Management Webinar

November 6, 2025 12:00PM – 1:00PM Zoom Webinar

Learn wise ways to use organic pesticides with Galen Dively, Professor Emeritus with the University of Maryland and an IPM Consultant. After Galen's talk, we'll have a group discussion about organic pesticides and non-pesticide control options for pests.
Nov 11

Savvy Tips for Starting a Small Business - November 11, 2025 - (Webinar)

November 11, 2025 3:00PM – 4:00PM Virtual - Zoom

The class provides financial tools to entrepreneurs and potential small business owners who are considering starting a new business.

View complete listing

News

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.
Apply now for SARE Partnership Grants and SARE Professional Development grants

Published on October 23, 2025
Two grant programs support farm educators and agriculture professionals to address sustainable agriculture issues through collaboration with farmers or train-the-trainer projects.