At the 2026 Farm to Fork Summit, Erin will share how produce prescription programs are improving outcomes for chronic disease, reducing healthcare costs, and strengthening local food systems.

February 24, 2026, at the state capitol in Jefferson City, join the Missouri Local Farm and Food Advocacy Day. It's an opportunity for family farms and local food producers and supporters to rally together and visit with state lawmakers.

The Farm to Fork Summit & Expo takes place March 6 in Nevada, MO, and features a keynote on food as medicine, breakout sessions on topics like direct-to-consumer sales, regenerative agriculture, USDA programs, agritourism, and more!

A grant from the Patterson Family Foundation will provide business assitance to farmers in Kansas and western Missouri and supporting the mission of the Heartland Food Business Coalition.

New Growth is looking for two passionate, community-minded individuals to join our team! Both positions offer the chance to make a real impact in rural Missouri while enjoying a four-day work week and great benefits.

The New Growth Beginning Farmers & Ranchers Development Program helps new farmers in Missouri and Kansas gain mentorship, training, and market connections to start strong. With support from experienced farmers and partners, it builds pathways for the next generation of growers and stronger rural communities.

When Miranda and her husband launched WEMO Wagyu, they had the cattle and the vision—but needed support to grow the business side. Now, their story is helping shine a national spotlight on the New Growth Women’s Business Center and its impact in rural Missouri.

On July 15, the USDA announced plans to end funding for the 12 Regional Food Business Centers—including the Heartland Center. Yet, Heartland Center partners are dedicated to finding support to continue the important work.

Attending the Farm to Fork Summit was a turning point for beginning elderberry farmer Julianne Hemphill. Through connections made there, she found the support, resources, and inspiration to start building Twilight Grove—her family’s future farm and rural business.

A letter from Congressman Mark Alford to the USDA made the Kansas City news—and so were some local organizations with ties to New Growth.

Community Representatives are needed from rural Missouri to serve on the advisory board of the Missouri Rural Food Access Partnership. This is a meaningful opportunity to share your community’s voice and help strengthen food access both locally and across the state.

Turning your passion for growing food into a business? With mentorship and apprenticeship opportunities available through New Growth and its partners, beginning farmers can get hands-on experience, avoid common missteps, and grow with confidence—on their own schedule and terms.