The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service have allocated over million to fund 30 projects aimed at enhancing food resilience across Wisconsin. These grants will bolster the middle section of the supply chain while reinforcing local and regional food systems. Nine projects in Northeast Wisconsin alone will receive more than .5 million. This investment aims to diversify agricultural markets, create new revenue streams for small and mid-sized producers, and provide economic opportunities for communities. The funded projects span various initiatives, including expanding processing and distribution capacities, building tribal food networks, and supporting sustainable agriculture.

Empowering Local Producers and Communities

The awarded grants are designed to empower local farmers and producers by strengthening their infrastructure and creating new economic opportunities. Several projects focus on improving processing and distribution capabilities, which are crucial for ensuring that locally grown products reach consumers efficiently. For instance, Clario Farms in Sturgeon Bay will expand its pasta production and distribution capacity with a grant exceeding 0,000. Similarly, Olden Produce in Ripon will optimize its supply chain with a .3 million grant, enabling it to better serve its growing customer base. These improvements not only enhance operational efficiency but also support the growth of smaller farms and producers who may lack access to essential resources like clean water or packaging facilities.

Moreover, several projects aim to foster cooperative infrastructure and strengthen intertribal food networks. The Forest County Potawatomi Community will use a .6 million grant to build healthier communities through improved food networks. Meanwhile, organizations like Ohe-laku Among the Corn Stalks and the Oneida Nation will leverage their grants to cultivate heirloom crops and promote traditional farming practices. These initiatives contribute to preserving cultural heritage while providing economic benefits to tribal communities. Seasonal Harvest in De Pere will upgrade its logistics and packing facilities, allowing it to aggregate products from underserved farms and serve a broader customer base, including major sports teams like the Green Bay Packers. Such efforts ensure that local producers can thrive and meet the increasing demand for fresh, locally sourced foods.

Building Sustainable and Inclusive Food Systems

In addition to empowering local producers, the grants also emphasize sustainability and inclusivity in the food system. Various projects focus on bridging gaps for socially disadvantaged farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Wello, Inc., based in Green Bay, will receive over 0,000 to assist socially disadvantaged farmers in adopting sustainable farming methods. This initiative supports environmental stewardship while fostering economic resilience among vulnerable groups. Similarly, the Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative in Waupaca will enhance its warehouse and trucking fleet with a 0,000 grant. This improvement will facilitate collaboration with smaller farms and tribal aggregation initiatives, benefiting approximately 250 local and regional producers. The cooperative will prioritize distribution to distressed communities, schools, and early childhood education programs, ensuring that nutritious food reaches those who need it most.

Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, serving all of Northeast Wisconsin, will receive over 0,000 to strengthen its infrastructure and distribution capacity. This funding will enable the organization to better serve underserved communities, ensuring they have access to essential food resources. The Stockbridge-Munsee Community in Bowler will construct a facility to process and store indigenous crops, furthering their mission of community self-governance and food sovereignty. These projects collectively contribute to a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive food system in Wisconsin, aligning with broader national goals to enhance food security and economic opportunities for all.