Michigan Food & Farming Systems (MIFFS) is a statewide, non-profit organization connecting beginning and historically underserved farmers to each other and resource opportunities; ensuring social justice, environmental stewardship, and profitability. 
Tuesday, December 6th, 2016
Meet the Buyers, has two parts: a morning workshop for buyers and producers and an evening reception that provides a casual atmosphere for all to network.  This event is held in conjunction with the  Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable, and Farm Market Expo (GLEXPO) , located in Grand Rapids, MI. 

Farm Development Centers' (FDC)

Tilian FDC
MIFFS greatly appreciates all the farmers at Tilian Farm Development Center working to bring local food to Michigan.  
Tilian Farm Development Cener
Veterans in Ag Network

Did you know there are many restaurants honoring veterans on Veterans Day (11/11) with a good meal. Check out all your many options. 

Nov 30- Dec 1
Women in Ag Network

Sunday, November 12th, 1 PM-5 PM.  Scaling Up at Thread Creek Farm. 

Monday, November 21st, 5:30-8 PM. WIA Network Meeting at the Local Grocer.

Sunday, December 4th, 1 PM- 5 PM.  Successful Direct Marketing and Promotion at The Local Grocer.
In the News/Community  Events/ Opportunities
In Michigan, From Small Farm to Urban Table  By Savannah Halleaux, Public Affairs Specialist, Michigan Farm Service Agency

MSU Farmer Field School is comprised of intensive one and two day hands-on workshops. They are tailored to deliver in- depth, practical information built upon the foundational work of the MSU Organic Farmer Training Program and the wealth of knowledge in Michigan’s farming community.

Check out the  Let's Farm Michigan Calendar  for a ll your farming events or to post your event on the calendar contact [email protected] for more information.

Granting Resources  (in order of deadline date)
NCR-SARE Announces 2017 Youth Educator Sustainable Agriculture Grants Call for Proposals. Youth Educator Grant projects provide opportunities for youth in the North Central Region to learn more about sustainable agriculture (farming and ranching that is ecologically sound, profitable, and socially responsible). Proposals are due by November 10, 2016.

Michigan Value-Added Grant Program
The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development is offering a grant opportunity to enhance Michigan's food and agriculture industry.  Proposals due November 17, 2016. 

Food Animal Concerns Trust (FACT) is now accepting applications for Fund-a-Farmer grants for livestock or poultry farmers who want to improve animal welfare on their farms. FACT will award grants of up to $2,500 for two types of projects. Applications are due by Nov. 21, 2016.

FARM ASSET BUILDER PROGRAM- A great matching program for those living in Southwest Michigan. Application Deadline November 30, 2016

USDA Food and Nutrition Service invites tribes, tribal organizations, and Native producers interested in selling food for school meals to the “ Farm to School Grant Program Review for Tribal Organizations ”  Applications are due by December 8th.

Read more...

local and regional food systems through the USDA. Check out their Urban Farmer Toolkit.  

Join our Joint Membership- MIFFS and National Young Farmers Coalition (NYFC), have a great opportunity for you. We are excited about this p artnership and we hope you will take advantage of the savings. Want to learn more or see the benefits of this joint membership? Check out our  information page  
Your contribution, in any capacity, is welcomed and appreciated. Thank you for playing a critical role in making Michigan farming an attractive and viable livelihood.

Sincerely, MIFFS
  480 Wilson Road, Room 172, East Lansing, MI 48824
Ph: 517.432.0712 | Fx: 517.353.7961 | [email protected]