Although grains make up an average of 30-50% of dietary intake, the organic grain market for human consumption is relatively limited, with little emphasis on local sourcing. Since the inception of the CGC in 2019, our nonprofit’s mission has been to grow and connect a community-centered grain economy in our state. This work involves connecting our membership base of 50+ Business and Consumer Members to educational and marketing resources, partners, and technical assistance. CGC’s membership base ranges from farmers, processors (millers and maltsters), to artisanal makers (bakers, brewers, distillers), food hubs, and institutions. 

In January 2024, we received an Organic Market Development Grant (OMDG) through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In our three-year project proposal, we planned to distribute six $5,000 Microgrants each year and focus on different parts of the Colorado organic grain supply chain. With this funding, the CGC is working to enhance market opportunities for producers, processors, and value-added product makers of organic grains for human consumption. 

In 2025 we will focus on the end of the supply chain which we have deemed the “makers.” This is the value-added and retail part of the grain process that falls after both harvest and processing. Qualified applicants might be involved in brewing, distilling, cooking, or creating value-added food products (bread, pasta, and more) with organic grains in Colorado.

Through analysis of the grain supply chain and conversations with Colorado grain stakeholders, we’ve determined that the primary issues to address in working to make organic grains more accessible are currently storage, marketing, and distribution. We’d love to have your business apply for a CGC Microgrant - please visit our Colorado Organic Grains Microgrant Program page for more details to apply.