Resourcing Chicago Growers & Sustainable Food Systems

Our Purpose

Advocates for Urban Agriculture provides resources and education that centers growers, farmers, earth stewards, land and water.

[Image: Arcoiris Alliance Farm]

We reimagine our relationships to land, labor, and our food system while honoring Indigenous Sovereignty, Black liberation, LGBTQIA+ freedom, Disability Justice, and Immigrants’ rights.

[Image: Dr. Israel and Dr. Martin with AUA at the African Heritage Garden]

Our Programs

Dedicated to fostering a sustainable and thriving agricultural community.

We partner with community-led urban farms through comprehensive programs that enhance soil health, provide essential water access, policy advocacy and offer invaluable mentorship. By resourcing farmers with capacity building grants and technical assistance, we aim to create a resilient, regenerative urban farming ecosystem.

Explore Programs

01

Soil Health Program

Learn about our community-based approach to improve soil health, addressing toxins, long-term fertility and sustainability for urban farms.

02

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Water Access for Chicago Growers

We are persistent in the fight for equitable water access policies and provide 1:1 technical support for our urban farm partners in Chicago.

03

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Farmer to Farmer
Mentorship

We build a community of regenerative growing practices by connecting experienced farmers with beginning growers to share knowledge and foster growth.

04

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Capacity Building Grant

Our capacity building grants are designed to build a sustainable local food economy by resourcing urban farms in order to enter new markets, increase their community engagement and improve food security.

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featured

Nourishing Roots, Reviving Soil

Advocates for Urban Agriculture is celebrating soil as a living relative alongside the growers who nourish the land through our fundraising campaign, “Nourishing Roots.” Celebrate with us and donate to sustain healthy food systems in Chicago!

Support this Initiative

[Image: Dr. Israel, Soil Stories Workshop, African Heritage Garden]

Resources

Explore resources and initiatives designed to empower Chicago's urban agriculture community.

From policy information to training opportunities, we've got you covered. Visit the Community Resources Repository to filter by category and search all resources.

Jobs Board & Solidarity News

Looking to be part of something bigger? View job openings and news postings in Chicago Agriculture that have been shared via our AUA network.

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Grants & Funding Opportunities

A list of the latest opportunities in grants and funding for urban agriculture projects in Chicago.
[Image: African Heritage Garden]

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Policy & Ordinance Information

Stay informed with the latest policy and ordinance updates affecting urban agriculture in Chicago, and learn how to navigate and influence the regulatory landscape.

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Urban Farmed Animal Resources Guide

Access vital resources and best practices for raising farm animals in an urban environment, ensuring their health and welfare.

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Chicago Urban Agriculture Mapping Project

Discover the scope of urban agriculture in Chicago through our detailed mapping project, highlighting active growing sites and community efforts.

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Education + Trainings

Take advantage of our in-house training programs as well as wide-ranging educational experiences from the community that offer essential skills and knowledge for both new and experienced urban farmers.

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