Strategic Plan Executive Summary

Introduction

MIFarmLink aims to keep Michigan farmland in cultivation by connecting farmers seeking land with owners looking to sell, lease, or create tenure arrangements. This strategic plan, developed in 2024 through workshops and expert consultation, outlines our goals and action items for the next five years.

Mission and Vision

Our mission is to secure Michigan’s agricultural heritage for future generations by bridging the gap between farmers seeking land with farmland owners. Our vision is a thriving and diverse agricultural economy where Michigan farmland remains in the hands of farmers.

MIFarmLink

Strategic Goals

  1. Optimizing mifarmlink.org Online Platform

    Enhance website functionalities, improve user experience, and maintain up-to-date content.

  2. Creating a Long-Term Financial Plan

    Develop core funding strategies, explore revenue-generating opportunities, and identify potential funders.

  3. Providing Resources and Connections for Farmers

    Offer land tenure, training connections, and promote diversity through targeted communication.

  4. Building Brand Recognition

    Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, develop a marketing plan, and enhance our reputation as Michigan’s farmland matchmaker.

  5. Identifying and Creating Key Partnerships

    Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with relevant organizations to strengthen our network.

  6. Working to Identify a Statewide Administrative Home

    Evaluate long-term organizational structure and explore the creation of regional hubs.

  7. Defining Benchmarks for Success

    Track key metrics such as farm properties listed, connections made, and conservation practices applied.

  8. Establishing Operational Systems

    Develop legal, communication, and operational guidelines to ensure effective program management.

Conclusion

This strategic plan, a collaborative effort by MIFarmLink staff and Advisory Committee, is designed to guide our work through realistic and attainable goals. It will be reviewed annually. Click here for the full Strategic Plan.