The Urban Food Systems Symposium returns to Kansas City in 2026—bringing growers, markets, and support services people from around the country to discuss and network on building and maintaining local and regional food systems. This year’s focus is on food systems’ relationship in and with community.

It is no surprise that some of KSCGA’s more active regional collaborators have been from community development organizations—and some have taken roles in community economic development from their success in building local foods networks. Local governments are realizing the impact of locally grown produce on community vitality and public health. This national symposium should provide affirmation and ideas on how to build on locally grown produce’s place in community.

Through a Beginning Farmer/Rancher Development Grant, KSCGA is partnering with K-State Extension and Growing Growers to offer up to $500 stipend reimbursement for new growers (<10 years in operation eligible) to attend networking/training events like this—with Growing Growers offering another $300 stipend for eligible new growers.

More info and registration for the September 2026 Urban Food Systems Symposium at: https://urbanfoodsystemssymposium.org/.