Durham Farmers Market for LFE

Local Food Economies

Click HERE for information about our 2018 Innovations in Economic Development Through Local Foods Events!

Local Food Economies (LFE) is an initiative of CEFS’ NC Growing Together (NCGT) project.  NCGT is a five-year, USDA-funded project that aims 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 aims to create an enabling environment for farms and food businesses.

In order to build a supportive business climate in which small and mid-size farmers, producers, and processors can thrive, The Local Food Economies initiative provides 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 the capacity and potential of businesses within the local food value chain.