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 4

Webinar: How to Make Money in Organic Farming

November 4, 2025 12:00PM – 1:00PM Zoom Webinar

Curious about making money in organic farming? Join us for this webinar.
Nov 5

SARE Professional Development Program grant deadline

November 5, 2025

SARE Professional Development Grants fund up to $120K for agriculture educator trainings, with a focus on sustainability: farm profitability, environmental stewardship and quality of life. Apply by November 5.

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News

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.
Increased Local Food Sales to Schools and the Value of Grant Investment: Findings from the 2025 National Food Hub Survey

Published on October 21, 2025
Showcasing experiences from the 2024 calendar year, the initial findings from the 2025 National Food Hub Survey highlight increased sales to schools, as well as a high dependence on grant funding.