The MDA is dedicated to supporting Farm to School and Early Care in Minnesota for the benefit of the state's farmers, students, and communities. Farm to School and Early Care initiatives build market opportunities for Minnesota farmers and food producers; increase access to local food and agriculture education; and strengthen our state’s economy.
We work closely with partners around the state to advance strategy and policy, offer grants and cost-shares, provide resources and technical assistance, coordinate events, and celebrate progress.
What is Farm to School and Early Care?
Farm to School and Early Care programs look different in every community, but typically involve one or more of the following approaches:
- Local Purchasing: Local foods are served to students as part of meals, snacks, or taste tests at schools and in early care settings.
- Education: Students learn about food, agriculture, health, and nutrition.
- School gardens: Students engage in hands-on learning by growing foods in gardens and other agricultural production settings, such as greenhouses.
Farm to School and Early Care in Minnesota
Farm to School and Early Care is growing in Minnesota. According to the 2019 USDA Farm to School Census, 79% of schools in Minnesota participate in Farm to School and serve local foods at meals, and 39% of Minnesota schools operate produce gardens.
Minnesota has several programs and initiatives to support schools, early care providers, farmers, food producers, and community partners who want to start or grow their involvement with Farm to School and Early Care.
Minnesota Farm to Kids Strategic Plan: 2025-2030
In 2024, the MDA worked with partners across the state to develop Minnesota’s first Farm to Kids Strategic Plan for collaboratively advancing local procurement and agricultural education in K-12 schools and early care settings. This plan will be implemented collaboratively by the MDA and partners through the formation of the Minnesota Farm to Kids Alliance.
2025-2030 Farm to Kids Strategic Plan - Summary
2025-2030 Farm to Kids Strategic Plan - Full Document
Questions about the Minnesota Farm to Kids Alliance or Strategic Plan? Contact Kate.Seybold@state.mn.us.
Stay Connected
The Root Review: Sign up to receive quarterly newsletters from the MDA and Minnesota Farm to School Leadership Team. The Root Review newsletter includes timely updates, happenings, and resources for Farm to School and Early Care.
