Local Food Economies

Communities can build intentional economic frameworks that support a business climate in which small and mid-size farmers, producers, and processors can thrive. The Local Food Economies (LFE) initiative created resources, tools, and information to non-agricultural agencies across the state that are working to build economically viable local food systems. LFE supports the work of local government and economic development agencies as they seek to expand business innovation and capacity within the local food value chain.

Local Food Economies  was an initiative of CEFS’ NC Growing Together (NCGT) project.  NCGT was a five-year, USDA-funded project that aimed to bring more locally-produced foods into mainstream markets, strengthening the economics of small to mid-sized farm and fishing operations and their communities. In addition to research, academic, and extension components, NCGT also aimed to create an enabling environment for farms and food businesses.