FARMWISE Indiana Spins Out as Independent Nonprofit

Organization aims to grow local food supply chain in Indiana

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:37pm

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FARMWISE Indiana Inc., an organization focused on expanding the supply chain for locally produced food, has officially launched as a standalone nonprofit. Executive Director Jodee Smith said the move will allow the group to further its mission of supporting Indiana's agricultural community and increasing access to fresh, locally-sourced foods.

Why it matters

The spin-out of FARMWISE Indiana as an independent nonprofit reflects a growing trend of mission-driven organizations seeking more autonomy and flexibility to achieve their goals. As consumer demand for locally-sourced and sustainable food options continues to rise, nonprofits like FARMWISE play a crucial role in bridging the gap between producers and consumers in regional food systems.

The details

FARMWISE Indiana was previously a program under the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. As an independent nonprofit, the organization will be able to more directly pursue its objectives of growing the supply of locally-produced foods, connecting farmers with new market opportunities, and educating consumers about the benefits of supporting Indiana's agricultural community.

  • FARMWISE Indiana officially launched as an independent nonprofit on April 2, 2026.
  • The organization was previously a program under the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.

The players

FARMWISE Indiana Inc.

A nonprofit organization focused on expanding the supply chain for locally produced food in Indiana.

Jodee Smith

The Executive Director of FARMWISE Indiana Inc.

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What they’re saying

“Being an independent nonprofit will allow us to further our mission of supporting Indiana's agricultural community and increasing access to fresh, locally-sourced foods.”

— Jodee Smith, Executive Director

What’s next

FARMWISE Indiana plans to host a series of farmer workshops and consumer education events in the coming months to connect producers with new market opportunities and raise awareness about the benefits of buying local.

The takeaway

The spin-out of FARMWISE Indiana as an independent nonprofit highlights the growing importance of mission-driven organizations in addressing regional food system challenges and meeting consumer demand for locally-sourced, sustainable food options.