Food & Agriculture

About Food and Agriculture

At the core of New Growth's Food Systems Unit lies a profound commitment to farmers and farm land, the lifelines of our rural communities and central to a new era of health and wealth. Getting locally produced food on our menus, in our schools, in our local and larger markets nearby can help us build economic growth and strengthen community bonds. It’s part of making sure everyone in our rural communities eats and lives well.

Beginning Farmers & Ranchers

The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Support Program assists farm entrepreneurs with less than 10 years of experience who want to know more about how to succeed quickly.

This program connects them to mentorships, business guidance, and access to vital resources, benefiting both individual farmers and rural economies.

Heartland Food Businesses

Heartland Regional Food Business Center, funded by the USDA, is a pivotal resource for food and agricultural businesses across Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Northwest Arkansas.

Catering to a broad spectrum of the food supply chain, including growers, producers, packagers, and distributors, Heartland is committed to empowering small, midsize, and particularly diverse and historically underserved entrepreneurs in the food and farm industry. By offering comprehensive business assistance and fostering connections within a supportive network, Heartland aims to facilitate the scaling of these businesses, promoting the integration of locally produced food into a robust and resilient local food supply chain. This initiative not only supports economic growth but also champions the sustainability of local food ecosystems.

New Growth is a co-director, along with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, of the Heartland Regional Food Business Center.