The National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) is launching Acres: Cultivating Equity in Black Agriculture, a program aimed at increasing economic opportunities for Black farmers and ranchers. With support from founding partners Cargill and UNFI, the initiative seeks to train and certify Black farmers as diverse suppliers, enabling them to access new markets, including grocery stores and restaurants. The goal is to triple the number of trained ranchers and farmers, fostering greater equity within the United States' food system.
The underrepresentation of Black farmers in the industry is a pressing issue. Data from McKinsey & Company reveals that only 1.4% of farmers identify as Black or mixed race, compared to approximately 14% a century ago. Furthermore, Black agricultural practitioners generate less than 0.5% of total U.S. farm sales and operate at 70% of their peer-level farm revenue. To address this disparity, Cargill and NMSDC developed the Acres program to enhance access to the agricultural supply chain for Black individuals. Participants benefit from strategic business support, skills development, NMSDC-certification assistance, and access to funding opportunities.
UNFI, as a founding circle member, and Cargill, through their Black Farmer Equity Initiative, are dedicated to closing equity gaps that have persisted within the food system. By collaborating with farmers, customers, and organizations like NMSDC, they aim to create a more inclusive and equitable agricultural landscape.
For further information about Acres and its impact, visit the NMSDC website. Organizations interested in supporting this initiative can contact Brandi Wiggins at Brandi.Wiggins@nmsdc.org.
About NMSDC: Founded in 1972, the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) is a catalyst for business growth within systematically excluded communities of color. Their mission extends beyond the supply chain, striving for upward mobility and equal access to wealth-building opportunities for underrepresented groups.
About Cargill: Cargill is a global leader in the food industry, connecting farmers with markets and families with essential products. With a commitment to sustainability and responsible practices, Cargill empowers partners and communities worldwide to nourish the world in a safe and sustainable manner.
About UNFI: UNFI is North America's premier grocery wholesaler, delivering a wide range of fresh, branded, and owned brand products to various locations across the continent. Their comprehensive services and expertise contribute to building successful businesses and brands while promoting a better food system for all.
Photo Credit: National Minority Supplier Development Council
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