Audience

Since the first gathering in 2015, the Northeast Farm to Institution Summit has become a seminal event for a dynamic network of communities, organizations, and institutions working together to create a just, equitable, and regenerative food system in New England and beyond. This network includes:

• Those who are impacted by the decisions and actions made through this movement/work

• Those working to leverage the power of institutions and institutional value chains to change the food system

• Those who hold power and resources in the institutional value chain and food system

More than 500 participants typically attend, including but not limited to; food service operators, producers, supply chain businesses, advocates, public officials, educators, funders, and students.

We recognize that the inequities in our food system impact some communities more than others. We strive to host an event that is informed by, participated in, and has a positive impact on the following priority impacted communities:

1. Farms, producers, and food businesses, with an emphasis on those who have been structurally excluded from funding, resources, and decision making. This may include BIPOC-led food orgs, farms and food businesses; immigrant and refugee farmers and food businesses; and tribal and indigenous-led food initiatives.

2. Communities and eaters who are impacted by institutional food systems and/or rely on institutions for a majority of their food and nutrients, with an emphasis on communities facing food apartheid.

Summit Schedule (subject to change)

Overarching Objectives

Proposal Guidance and Criteria

Our goal is to create a vibrant, engaging program that meets the objectives outlined above. We seek proposals that center priority impacted communities, and highlight opportunities and examples of inclusivity and belonging. We will be building on the energy and progress of the 2023 F2iSummit, where the network actively created opportunities for collective action. With this guidance in mind, please consider submitting proposals for these 3 different types:

• 2 hour “strategy” sessions: These longer session blocks enable you to facilitate reflective and engaging conversations that foster collaborative solutions.

• 1 hour sessions: These shorter sessions are suited to information sharing, with dynamic audience engagement.

• Field trips: Place-based sessions outside the conference venue offer opportunities to connect in person and showcase the unique aspects of Maine’s greater Portland area food system.

We encourage creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity. You may find it helpful to review agendas from our previous conferences, to avoid repetition, build on important themes and work streams, or introduce new ideas. Proposals that are not accepted for the 2025 Northeast F2iSummit may be considered for programming later in the year (e.g., virtual webinars, smaller gatherings, etc.).

The FINE staff and Summit Steering Committee strive to create a balanced program and will select proposals that align with one or more of the 2025 Summit objectives and theme (see above) and:

• Include presenters that represent a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and communities

• Encourage participant engagement and active learning during the session

• Acknowledge and addresses issues related to social justice, equity, and belonging

• Build capacity through skill development

• Aid in network development or stimulate network activity beyond the Summit

• Engage priority impacted community members, decision-makers, and/or policy-makers 

• Share new information

• Apply across sectors and across states

Proposal Review Schedule

Proposals are due November 1, 2024 extended to November 12. Presenters can expect a response regarding the status of their proposals in early January 2025. If you are having trouble with the submission form or need assistance submitting a proposal, please contact Tania at tania@farmtoinstitution.org.

We’re Here to Help!

Reach Out

Contact Tania at tania@farmtoinstitution.org or 617-610-3335 if you:

• Would like to discuss your ideas first

• Are looking for co-facilitators/presenters

• Have never submitted a proposal before

• Would like assistance due to technological, language, or other challenges

2025 F2iSummit Registration Information

In order to create an inclusive event while managing the financial risks of an in-person conference, we will offer a sliding scale conference fee. While we are not able to offer free participation to all presenters, we encourage them to select the ticket that matches their financial situation. Limited speaking stipends will be available for members of priority impacted communities.

Presenter Policies & Procedures

• Individuals and organizations are not limited in the number of proposals they may submit, however we may limit the number of times an individual or organization presents. Please fill out a separate form for each proposal.

• Proposals may be accepted in total or in part.

• Workshops and breakout sessions will be scheduled on Tuesday, April 8th and Wednesday, April 9th. Field trips will be on Monday, April 7th. We will do our best to accommodate presenters' schedules, but please be available on the appropriate day for the type of proposal you submit.

• Some in-person presentations may be recorded and made available to all summit registrants.

• Presenters are encouraged to participate in a virtual prep session prior to the Summit.

Additional details will be provided to session organizers with accepted proposals after the review process. Thank you for submitting!

Looking for proposal inspiration?

2025 Summit Steering Committee