New state program to help build local food infrastructure

New state funding is now available to help build out Illinois’ food infrastructure, with the hope of getting more local food out in more markets.

Nearly $2 million in state funds will be handed out next spring under the Illinois Local Food Infrastructure Grant program, under a new program being administered this year by the Illinois Stewardship Alliance. The group brought together farmers and food consumers to advocate for legislation last spring aimed at addressing one of the biggest challenges facing the state’s food system.

Farmers have exciting products ready to reach more eaters. But ther...