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Registration is Open for Illinois Stewardship Alliance Conference

  • Writer: Bob Benenson
    Bob Benenson
  • 2 minutes ago
  • 2 min read

Organization's First-Ever Multi-Day Event Scheduled for March 24-25 in Springfield



Illinois Stewardship Alliance — the state's leading policy advocate for the food and farm community — has done such much to persuade state lawmakers to pass measures that promote a better food system. But one thing they have never done is hold a live, multi-day conference.


Until now, that is. Registration is now open for the Alliance's "Dig Deep, Rise Together: For Our Farm and Food Future Conference," which will be held in the state capital of Springfield March 24 and 25.


The event will begin at the Northfield Inn on March 24. Then, on the second day, it will incorporate the organization's annual Lobby Day, during which policy advocates will disbursed around the state Capitol to enlighten legislators about the Alliance''s 2026 policy priorities (which you can read about in this Local Food Forum article).


Click the button below to buy tickets for the conference, and learn about the group rate for hotel rooms at Northfield Inn. Then scroll down for a message from Alliance Executive Director Liz Stelk.



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You've been part of building real momentum for farm and food system change, showing up, contributing, and taking action, often without time or space to connect with others who share your sense of what's at stake.


This spring, you have an opportunity to gather with farmers, food system leaders, and others like you from across the state to do more than talk about problems.


You are invited to the inaugural event:


Dig Deep, Rise Together: For Our Farm & Food Future Conference

March 24–25, 2026

Springfield, Illinois



This two-day gathering is a rare chance to learn from, and with, so many others who share your commitment to farms, food, and community.  You'll refuel, sharpen your analysis, level up your skills, and step into next season feeling energized and clear about the difference you're helping make..

At this unique new conference, you will:


  • Dig Deep into the issues facing Illinois farms, farmers, and food systems with insights grounded in lived experience and analysis of what’s working, what’s broken, and what’s possible.

  • Leave with practical tools to put to work right away, including skills in organizing, storytelling, and strategic thinking that strengthen your leadership and our collective impact.

  • Connect with others who get it - from across the state, agriculture and food, and perspectives - through shared meals, dialogue, and storytelling.

  • Rise Together with other attendees and put new skills in action at Farm & Food Advocacy Day at the Capitol.


Whether you’re long connected to this movement or newly stepping into it, you’ll leave feeling affirmed and energized, ready to act, knowing the work matters, the effort is shared, and change is possible when people move together.


With generous support from sponsors, registration for this inaugural event is deeply discounted for eligible attendees and limited travel scholarships are available.


I hope you’ll be part of this unique space and head into the season renewed, clear, and ready to rise together toward our farm and food future.

 

Sincerely,


Liz Moran Stelk

Executive Director



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