West Michigan Organic Farm Tour: Explore Farm to Institution Markets from schools to hospitals

August 11, 2026 

Join the Michigan Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP) for a special West Michigan learning day focused on Farm to Institution markets. You’ll see farm to school marketing options, including a farm managed by Trinity Hospital and a food hub for farm to institution sales and two farms north of town. Spend the day learning how organic and transitioning farmers can strengthen business management, access new market channels, and connect with institutions, schools, and community‑based buyers—all while touring innovative farms and food organizations across West Michigan.

Schedule for the Day

10:30–11:45 AM

McLaughlin Grows Urban Farm

Topic: Farm‑to‑School & Institutional Market Opportunities
 Hear from McLaughlin Grows staff and other local partners about how West Michigan farmers can market to hospitals and incorporate on-farm health education. 

12:05–1:00 PM

FARM Accelerator & Food Hub (Food, Agriculture, Research & Manufacturing Accelerator) 

Includes Lunch + Optional Tour
 Explore how FARM supports scaling farmers and value‑added producers with Clarence Rudat. 

1:30–2:45 PM

Tortoise & Hare Farm

See Tortoise & Hare’s farm and learn about their experience building a resilient, diversified farm business.

3:00–4:15 PM

Woven Trifecta Farm

This tour of Woven Trifecta Farm will feature Sam Otto’s experience building a resilient, diversified farm business, while also leading a farm to school project. Sam is a TOPP mentee transitioning her farm to organic certification.

Why Join the West Michigan TOPP Farmer Day?

✔ Learn from local farmers and market specialists
 ✔ Tour innovative farms and food system organizations connecting local farms with institutions
 ✔ Understand how to access diverse markets—including schools to hospitals
 ✔ Build business planning and marketing skills tailored to organic production
 ✔ Connect with the West Michigan TOPP team and regional support organizations

We will contact everyone registered ASAP in case of event changes or a cancellation. 

Contact Katie Brandt at brandtk7@msu.edu if you have any questions.