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 9

Organic Apple Orchard Tour at Third Leaf Farms - TOPP Partner event

October 9, 2025 4:00PM – 6:00PM 4 to 6pm ET Third Leaf Farm, 13993 10 Mile Rd NE, Greenville, MI 48838

Managing organic apples is complex! See this example from a 3rd generation orchard that has transitioned to organic over the last decade. Farmer Kyle Rasch will share insights on soil health, organic approaches to pest and disease management and more!
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.

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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.