CALL FOR SPEAKERS

Now in its 26th year, the Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference (NMSFC) brings together farmers, growers, and land stewards to share knowledge, build connections, and strengthen the region’s agricultural community. The 2025 conference will be held August 18-19 at The Leelanau School in Glen Arbor, MI, with additional farm-based experiences nearby. To highlight the diversity of farms and regions we serve, the conference rotates to a new county each year, offering attendees the chance to experience local farms at the height of their production. The NMSFC is a program of Crosshatch Center for Art & Ecology.

Incubate // Integrate

This year’s conference offers two days of deep learning and connection, each with a different focus. Monday will “incubate” ideas with technical and hands-on workshops tailored for farmers, while Tuesday will “integrate” by broadening the scope, offering sessions for farmers, aspiring farmers, and those working in community food spaces. Growers of all backgrounds are encouraged to attend both days for valuable skills, insights, and connections. Throughout, we’ll also weave in a focus of farmer wellness, recognizing the importance of resilience and well-being in our work.

Seeking Speaker & Skill-Sharing Proposals

We welcome proposals from a wide range of speakers on a wide range of topics. We encourage proposals from all stages—absolute beginners to seasoned experts:

  • Speaker Presentations – Engaging talks and discussions that provide valuable insights, strategies, or technical knowledge for small farmers and food producers.

  • Hands-on Skill-Sharing Workshops – Interactive sessions that teach practical skills related to farming, ecology, and food. Examples may include bee keeping, food preservation, tree grafting, natural dying, traditional crafts and more.

Why Speak at Our Conference?

  • Share your expertise and passion with a dedicated audience

  • Network with other professionals in the small farming community

  • Contribute to the growth and sustainability of small farms in Michigan

We welcome diverse perspectives and encourage proposals from farmers, community organizers, researchers, and educators. Space is limited, so we encourage early submissions!

Deadline to submit: April 24, 2024

Questions? Contact Katrina Daniels at 231-533-2555 or katrina@crosshatch.org.