The Michigan Food Hub Learning and Innovation Network was first formed in 2012 with the goal of increasing access to financial and technical assistance, research and education for food hubs and their partners. Since its formation, the Network has evolved to meet the needs and priorities of Michigan-based food hubs, as well as the increasing demand for local foods.
With the help of a 2018 USDA Local Food Promotion Program grant, the Michigan Food Hub Network transitioned to the current practitioner-lead model. The Network actively convenes food hub operators on a quarterly basis to work on deepening hub-to-hub collaboration and technical support. There are around 11 active Michigan-based food hubs involved in the Network (See directory below), sourcing product from nearly 500 small and mid-sized farms across the state.
By working together, Michigan food hubs have access to more products and services across the state — which means greater variety and volume for buyers, and more economic opportunity for Michigan’s farm and food businesses.
What is a food hub?
Food hubs are businesses or organizations that foster and manage connections between local farms and buyers to create a healthy, sustainable, local and regional food system. While each food hub operates in a unique way, many share common services including aggregation, storage, processing, subscription, programs, distribution, and marketing.
How do I get involved?
Connect with Network coordinator, Sam Stokes stokess4@msu.edu to learn more about what the MI Food Hub Network can offer.
If you’re a food buyer...
We connect businesses and institutions interested in sourcing Michigan-grown products to the best food hub to fit their needs — from specialty gourmet products to high volume institutional sales. Use the Michigan Food Hub Network directory to connect to a hub that can fulfill your order.
If you’re a grower or producer...
Our network can help expand your wholesale market and add value to your products. Contact us to find out how you can become a supplier. Check out the interactive food hub directory to find a food hub near you.
If you’re a new or existing food hub or distributor of regional food products…
We encourage you to join the Network! The Network offers peer-to-peer learning and tangible development support for food hubs operators of all skill and experience levels. To have your food hub listed as part of the directory, fill out this form.
Financial support statement
Funding for the Michigan Food Hub Network was made possible by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marking Service through grant AM180100XXXXG125. Additional financial support for the Michigan Food Hub Network is provided by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.
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