What We Do
Policy
development
Uniting partners to co-create a policy agenda to build stronger, more durable plant-based food value chains.
Advancing federal farm policy to feed people directly.
Federal agricultural programs from crop insurance, commodity support payments, research and extension, and conservation programs, were designed around a narrow set of commodity crops. A multifaceted coalition of partners recognize the importance of extending that support to specialty crops including the legumes, grains, nuts, mushrooms, and vegetables that become the protein and fiber-rich foods that Americans increasingly reach for. Changing what is grown requires changing what gets supported, expanding capital for regional processing and aggregation hubs, alongside targeted investments in market architecture and sector development.
1 in 10
U.S. farm operations grow specialty crops — the legumes, grains, and vegetables that feed people most directly.
75%
of all farm income goes to just 6% of farms, reflecting how current policy concentrates support.
-8%
decline in number of farms in the United States from 2017-2022.
Source: USDA NASS, 2022 Census of Agriculture, February 2024 and USDA Economic Research Service, Farming and Farm Income data product, 2024.
Our Approach
Four ways we advance plant-based policy
01
Tracking, analyzing, and advancing federal and state opportunities
We monitor the full landscape of federal and state policy opportunities for plant-based food development — from farm bill provisions and crop insurance reform to state-level agricultural programs.
02
Building coalitions with agricultural and public health stakeholders
We bring together crop breeders, researchers, producers, food manufacturers, public health advocates, and aligned organizations to advance shared policy priorities across constituencies.
03
Providing data and analysis to policymakers and advocates
We produce and share the market data, economic analysis, and on-the-ground evidence that helps policymakers understand where investment in plant-based food systems has the highest leverage.
04
Connecting federal policy work to on-the-ground market realities
We create opportunities for policymakers to engage directly with plant-based producers and manufacturers through curated industry events that bring the full value chain to life.
Where It Is Working
Policy work in action.
