Shaping Illinois’ Food Future: Join the Movement to Build a Resilient, Local Food System

Illinois is on the cusp of a transformative moment in its food system—a chance to design a future that is sustainable, resilient, and deeply rooted in local communities. Now is your opportunity to join forces with farmers, food producers, distributors, grocery co-ops, and other food system leaders to craft an actionable roadmap for our local food future.

Supported by funding from the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), the Experimental Station has brought together a task force of existing Illinois food system leaders. Their mission? To spend the next six months gathering crucial information and insights: “What might an Illinois Food System Roadmap look like? Which initiatives are already making waves across the state? Who is partnering with whom, and where do we see pressing needs and gaps?” This comprehensive inquiry will help identify the priorities for Illinois’s food future.

In many states, strategic roadmaps have already paved the way for locally anchored food systems—18 states have completed their plans, with 11 more in progress according to a survey shared by Experimental Station. Illinois has the chance to join this movement, setting a standard for sustainable food practices while fostering stronger community ties and economic resilience.

Whether you’re deeply embedded in the local food scene or simply passionate about creating a better food system, your voice and expertise are essential.

This is a call to all who want to see meaningful change in Illinois—a chance to contribute ideas, share experiences, and help lay down a clear, forward-thinking path for our state’s food future.

Get involved today by attending one of the upcoming in-person or virtual events.

Learn more and register: experimentalstation.org/roadmap

The next in person listening session takes place March 14th at the 20th Annual Chicago Food Justice Summit from 11am – 12:30pm.