Cultivating a Thriving Mid-Atlantic Grain Economy
CGA strengthens the regional grain system by connecting farmers, millers, bakers, brewers, distillers, and consumers — and by making it possible for more grain to be grown, processed, and enjoyed locally. Our programs support regenerative agriculture, build inclusive markets, and create the infrastructure needed for a vibrant, resilient, and equitable grain economy.
Value Chain Coordination
Connecting the Regional Grain Network
A strong regional grain economy begins with strong relationships.
We bring together farmers, millers, bakers, brewers, researchers, retailers, and policymakers to share knowledge, align goals, and collaborate.
What We Do
Facilitate cross-sector networking and matchmaking
Produce the annual Mid-Atlantic Grain Conference, bringing together 300+ stakeholders
Conduct our Annual Member Survey to understand needs, barriers, and opportunities
Develop social and organizational infrastructure
Build collective strategy around acreage, markets, pricing, and physical infrastructure
Why It Matters
Regional grain work is inherently collaborative. Coordination ensures that farmers understand market needs, processors know what crops are coming, bakers can plan sourcing, and consumers can rely on regional food and beverage products.
FARMER RESOURCES
Training, Tools, and Support for Mid-Atlantic Grain Growers
CGA supports farmers at all experience levels — from first-time grain growers to experienced operators transitioning to food-grade or regenerative systems. Our farmer programs are designed to meet real needs in the field while building long-term capacity across the region.
What We Offer
Growing Grain Handbook — a foundational, regionally specific guide to food-grade grain production
Field days, webinars, and grower trainings focused on agronomy, soil health, and market readiness
Technical assistance on grain varieties, regenerative practices, and achieving food-grade quality
Peer learning opportunities with millers, bakers, and grain buyers
Past initiatives: A 9-month Leadership Cohort that supported veterans and farmers of color (offered through a completed grant-funded program)
Why It Matters
Growing food-grade grain requires the right skills, infrastructure, and market connections. Our resources help farmers overcome production challenges, improve soil health, diversify income, and build lasting relationships with regional buyers.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
Building the Tools and Capacity Needed for Regional Grains
The largest bottlenecks in regional grain economies are often infrastructure-related: cleaning, storage, transportation, milling, and aggregation. We work to identify these gaps and drive investment in long-term solutions.
Our Work Includes
Managing shared equipment programs for members (mills, seed cleaners, and more)
Leading the Regional Grain Supply Chain Assessment to map bottlenecks and solutions
Partnering on Rural Business Development Grants to expand infrastructure access
Supporting on-farm and community-based equipment investments
Developing shared standards for product quality and verification
Why It Matters
Without infrastructure, regional grain can’t scale. Our work creates the foundation for farmers and processors to meet growing demand.
market access & consumer education
BuildingCreating Demand — and Making Local Grain More Accessible
We help consumers, bakers, chefs, breweries, and retailers understand why local grain matters — and make it easier to buy and use.
Programs & Initiatives
Mid-Atlantic Grain Stand showcasing regional grain products
Grain Share Pilot, a CSA-style offering that distributed 989 shares in its first two years
Baker Meet-Ups focusing on skill-building and product innovation
Consumer education resources: recipes, “Grains 101,” sourcing guides
Partnerships with markets, chefs, food hubs, and retailers
Why It Matters
Consumer awareness and market access are essential for sustaining regional supply. When more people choose local grain, more farmers can grow it.
Get Involved
→ Join the Grain Share (where available)
→ Attend a Baker Meet-Up
→ Explore our recipe and sourcing guides
The People Behind the Grain Economy
Want to see the grain economy in action? Meet the farmers, millers, bakers, and makers who are shaping the future of regional grain. Their stories bring this work to life — and we invite you to explore them.
Support This Work
CGA’s progress depends on collaboration, partnership, and investment from across the food system.
Ways to Support
→ Become a Member
→ Sponsor the Mid-Atlantic Grain Conference
→ Donate to support farmer education and infrastructure
→ Partner with us on market-building or research