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 28

Webinar: Organic Market Premium - How Much Can I Expect to Get for My Products?

October 28, 2025 12:00PM – 1:00PM Zoom Webinar

Curious about making money in organic farming? Join us for this webinar.
Oct 30

Nutrient Management for Organic Farms Webinar - Part 2

October 30, 2025 12:00PM – 1:00PM Zoom Webinar

Join us for a two-part webinar series discussing nutrient risk management for organic farms.
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

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News

Business Spotlight: Agape Organic Farms

Published on October 24, 2025
Agape Organic Farms, a certified organic pork and mushroom farm based in Dansville, is a food sovereignty champion. With grant writing and network-building support from the Center for Regional Food Systems, Agape scaled its operations and impact.
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.