Hello FARE Idaho Members and Future Members,

Happy October! As we transition into the new season, we’re feeling excited for all the wonderful things happening within our community.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated in our membership survey. We’re already reviewing your feedback and truly appreciate your insights. If you have more you’d like to share, please feel free to reach out to me directly. I’m happy to keep our conversation anonymous—we genuinely want to support you in any way we can.

There’s so much to be excited about lately! Our partnership with Reko has brought new Reko Rings across the state, building strong connections between local producers and their communities. Our new membership interface is also live, making it easier than ever to connect with fellow members and access resources. Plus, we’re excited to announce that the new Request for Proposal (RFP) program helping restaurants source local food is launching today! And let’s not forget about Nice Healthcare, now available to all members, no matter the size or sector of your business.

All that and Field to Fork Festival is just around the corner! Keep an eye out for details about registration and sponsorship opportunities! We can’t wait to gather and celebrate all things local with you.

Here’s to a wonderful month ahead, filled with community and growth!

-Tammie

FARE Idaho is excited to launch a new Request for Proposal (RFP) initiative aimed at connecting Idaho restaurants with local producers. This new service simplifies the process of sourcing fresh, high-quality ingredients from local farmers, ranchers, and artisans committed to sustainability and community.

How It Works:
Restaurants submit their ingredient needs—whether it’s produce, meats, or specialty items—and FARE Idaho shares the request with a network of local producers. Producers then respond with tailored proposals, including product details, pricing, and delivery options.

This initiative saves time for busy restaurants, offering a streamlined way to find the best local ingredients without compromising on quality.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your menu or support local agriculture, this initiative helps bridge the gap between field and fork. 

FARE Idaho is excited to announce updates to the FARE Idaho Legislative Affairs Committee (FILAC), previously known as FIPAC. With the name change, we're also introducing new membership and sponsorship tiers, offering even more opportunities for you to get involved in shaping the future of Idaho’s local food and beverage industry.

Whether you're a supporter or a visionary, there's a place for everyone to participate, advocate, and drive meaningful change for our community. Join FILAC today and be a part of the movement that champions Idaho’s independent food system.

The HFFI FARE Fund is a new initiative under America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative, offering $60 million in funding over five years. In the 2024-2025 cycle, $9 million is available for grants, $1.5 million for technical assistance, and $16 million for loans. Grants of up to $250,000 will support project implementation, and loans between $500,000-$5 million are available for eligible projects.

Funding will assist ventures that provide healthy, affordable food to underserved communities. Eligible applicants include businesses, nonprofits, and government entities.

Wisconsin Examiner: America’s dairy farms are disappearing, down 95% since the 1970s
Eater: For These Chefs, ‘Farm to Table’ Means Climate-Conscious Food Sourcing
American Farmland Trust: In the Fields: Highlights from Conversations with U.S. Women Farmers
Southeast AgNET: Key Farm Programs End as Farm Bill Extension Expires

Enjoying our newsletter but not yet a FARE Idaho member? Membership helps support our work and gives you access to lots of great member benefits. Join us today!

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