Food Systems
We envision vibrant local and regional food systems in Oklahoma that nourish the health
and well-being of Oklahoma communities, conserve and enhance the natural resource
base, and provide economically sustainable livelihoods for Oklahoma farmers and food
businesses.
Through a partnership of the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service (OCES) and the
Oklahoma Small Business Development Center (OKSBDC), the local food systems program
exists to provide resources and timely information to all residents and businesses
across the state. The partnership promotes local food production and economic development
in Oklahoma communities by providing technical information, data, confidential business
advising, training and networking opportunities for practitioners in the local food
space. The partnership appreciates the fact that there is tremendous opportunity for
business start-ups and growth throughout every level of the local food space; we are,
therefore, excited to offer the expertise of Extension and SBDC to help accelerate
Oklahoma’s agricultural production and entrepreneurship.