By Andi Anderson
Michigan farmers and food producers will have an opportunity to expand their knowledge, strengthen industry connections, and access valuable educational resources through the 2026 Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference. The event, hosted by the Crosshatch Center for Art and Ecology, is scheduled to take place in downtown Bellaire, Michigan, from October 4 to 6, 2026.
The conference will focus on the theme “culture keepers,” highlighting the people, traditions, and practices that help sustain local food systems, agricultural heritage, and rural communities. Participants will engage in a variety of activities, including on-farm workshops, educational presentations, and roundtable discussions designed to encourage learning and collaboration among farmers and agricultural professionals.
To increase access to the event, Michigan’s Emerging Farmers statewide program is offering financial support to 20 Michigan farmers and producers who are actively involved in food production. Selected applicants will receive assistance covering several conference-related expenses, helping reduce financial barriers that may prevent participation.
Funding support includes conference registration fees, which also cover the Sunday farm tour. Recipients will receive lodging accommodations for the nights of October 4 and 5 near the conference venue. In addition, participants will be invited to attend two hosted networking lunches with members of the Michigan’s Emerging Farmers network on October 5 and 6. A $100 stipend will also be provided to help offset travel expenses and other related costs.
Applications for funding must be submitted by August 20, 2026, and applicants will be notified of decisions by August 21. Organizers note that submitting an application does not guarantee funding and does not automatically register participants for the conference.
Selected participants will be expected to attend the full conference program from Sunday through Tuesday. They will also take part in networking activities with fellow participants and members of the Michigan’s Emerging Farmers team. A post-conference survey will be required to help evaluate the program's impact. Additionally, an optional virtual orientation session will be offered before the event.
Michigan’s Emerging Farmers is a statewide network of educators and technical assistance providers dedicated to helping growers, producers, and farming communities access local, state, and federal resources. The initiative supports farmers by connecting them with educational opportunities, guidance, and tools that can help strengthen their operations.
The project is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and operates through a partnership involving the Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems, MSU Extension, and Michigan Food and Farming Systems.
By supporting participation in the Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference, Michigan’s Emerging Farmers aims to encourage professional development, knowledge sharing, and stronger connections within the state's growing agricultural community.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Michigan, General