Our storyGrowers, eaters, creatives, and economic developers together established Sprout in 2012. With a mission to connect and strengthen the local food system as a regional asset, this community continues to grow and contribute to our collective story of a vibrant and resilient Central Minnesota.
We believe that food, art, and culture are core and integrated in the promotion of health, sustainability, and vitality. Sprout works to connect these elements in ways that increase healthy food access, encourage entrepreneurship, and cultivate creativity. Sprout is a federally recognized 501c3 non-profit organization. |
BlogsOur stories, your words. Community submitted blog posts and video interviews.
WorkshopsBuild your business. Attend our free educational workshops to grow your profitability and capacity.
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Creative PlacemakingJoin us creating a destination where artisans, performers, chefs, and growers connect. Explore the natural bridges between agriculture, art, and culture through community projects, commissioned art, and special events.
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Meet The Team
ARLENE JONESExecutive Director
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JESSIE BAVELLIAssistant Director
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Culinary Program & Food Systems Coordinator
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CSA & Facility Assistant
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COMMUNITY PARTNERS
BJ Allen Sharon Wettland Colette Pohlkamp Colleen Landkamer CONSTRUCTION Widseth Smith Nolting Gangl Construction |
EDUCATORS
Prairie Bay Todd County Public Health Lakewood Hospital System Brainerd Small Business Development Center Central Lakes College Renewing the Countryside Bakers’ Acres University of Minnesota Extension: Nutrition and Economic Impact educators Sustainable Farming Association University of Minnesota centers Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) educators CURA Cap |
FUNDERS
National Joint Powers Alliance USDA Rural Development Minnesota Department of Agriculture University of Minnesota Central Regional Sustainable Development Partnership St. Gabriel’s Hospital Initiative Foundation Happy Dancing Turtle AURI Region Five Development Commission ArtPlace America North Central Economic Development Association Syvantis Technology Community Development of Morrison County Small Business Development Center Morrison County SHIP |