Network + Influence: Northeast Indiana Stakeholders Shape State Policy
Evidence of the growing momentum behind the Northeast Indiana local food movement was on full display last week at Ivy Tech. Despite a winter storm, nearly 70 dedicated stakeholders from an initial pool of more than 100 registrants braved the elements to attend the Local Food Networking and Policy Summit. This strong turnout underscored the urgency of creating a more resilient, self-sufficient food system for our 11-county region.
Local Food Networking
Success in local food is built on relationships. Our Local Food Networking session successfully bridged the gap between local agriculture and industry, creating a collaborative environment where local businesses found new opportunities for growth and regional programs gained stronger, community-based support.
A Roadmap Guided by Executive Action
The policy discussions were grounded in Governor Braun’s Executive Order 25-58, "Making Indiana Healthy Again By Increasing Hoosier Access to Local Foods". This order directs the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) to conduct a comprehensive study of the state’s local food landscape. Key areas of the study include:
Evaluating State Programs: Assessing existing initiatives related to local foods, livestock processing, and direct-to-consumer sales.
Removing Barriers: Addressing hurdles to farm diversification, value-added production, and capital access.
Processing and Economic Impact: Identifying gaps in food processing and calculating the potential economic benefits for Indiana.
Leading the Conversation: ISDA Listening Session
A highlight of the event was a dedicated listening session led by Rachel Brandenburg from the ISDA. As the leader of this policy discussion, Brandenburg facilitated a deep dive into the successes and challenges unique to our region.
Participants engaged in a transparent dialogue, answering critical questions regarding what is working well in Northeast Indiana and which organizations need additional resources to expand local food access. This direct feedback loop ensures that the final recommendations presented to the state are rooted in the lived experience of our regional producers.
A Diverse Coalition for Change
The summit brought together voices from across the regional food chain to discuss the "Northeast Indiana Experience". Attendees included:
Legislative and Congressional Representatives: Staff from Senator Todd Young’s office and congressional candidate Kelly Thompson joined to hear directly from regional stakeholders.
Local Producers and Entrepreneurs: Growers and processors seeking to sell locally and develop relationships to expand their business.
Health and Education Leaders: State public health experts and leaders from local K-12 school culinary and nutrition programs.
Advocates and Policy Makers: Nutrition insecurity advocates and non-profit leaders focused on regional food policy.
Conscious Consumers: Residents and "eaters" invested in the health of their local food sources.
Your Voice Still Matters
For those unable to attend due to the weather, the opportunity to influence the regional roadmap remains open. We encourage you to reach out to the ISDA directly with your feedback on regional barriers and opportunities to Rachel Brandenburg at rbrandenburg@isda.in.gov and Caroline Patrick at CPatrick@isda.IN.gov.
Stay Informed
To keep up to date on policy updates, regional initiatives, and important local food news, we invite you to subscribe to the Northeast Indiana Local Food Network “Local Food” newsletter and follow us on social media. Your ongoing engagement is vital as we work together to strengthen the local food system across Northeast Indiana.
