With defined and agreed-upon vision, values, strategies, and tactics, food system stakeholders at all levels will be able to work and advocate collectively for a diverse, resilient, and sustainable Illinois food system.
Together, hundreds of food system stakeholders have contributed to the following vision and values:
Vision
Our collective vision is to build a diverse, sustainable, and resilient Illinois food system that will grow the local food economies of the state and provide equitable access to nourishing food for all residents of Illinois.
Values
Thriving and connected rural and urban communities with affordable access to
nutritious, locally grown foods.
An economically sustainable food and agriculture economy based on growing and producing food for the people of Illinois.
Independent family farms, producers, and farms of all size and scale are profitable and thriving.
A diverse and environmentally sustainable Illinois specialty crops, grain, meat, poultry, and dairy industry.
Historically underserved and underrepresented farmers and communities feel included and equipped to thrive.
Healthy people, air, soil,
and water.
Safe, secure, fairly paid jobs across the food system.
Producers and eaters drive the shaping of the food system.
Collaboration and cooperation among all stakeholders in the food system.