The Local Food Switchboard is a food supply chain coordination platform that connects Maine’s food system to buy and sell local foods more easily. It streamlines and verifies procurement data and logistics while providing tailored support. By shifting from competition to coordination, the platform builds reliable market connections and a more equitable, resilient, and relationship-based food system.
Why Does the Switchboard Matter?
For Schools: Easier access to Maine foods, supporting student health, & culturally relevant meals.
For Producers: New institutional markets, fairer contracts, reduced waste.
For Maine: Stronger local economy, smarter infrastructure investment, and a replicable model for other regions.
Goals of the Switchboard Project
Build relationships between food supply chain actors across Maine
Identify opportunities to maximize the use of existing food infrastructure and equipment across Maine; supporting small business access to infrastructure and markets
Increase local food procurement in Maine schools
Increase food system efficiency and decrease input costs for processors by supporting expanded food storage and processing infrastructure and the movement of seconds or excess fresh product for processing
Provide data on food supply chain needs so that investors, policymakers and service providers have a better understanding of where resources can be deployed for greatest impact
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Juliana Beecher
Central Operator
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Rae Sage
Central Operator
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Lucy Flores
Equity Consultant
Local Food Switchboard Project was awarded funding by Full Plates Full Potential and The USDA Food System Innovation Grant! This is part of the USDA’s Healthy Meals Incentive Initiative’s School Food System Transformation Challenge.
This project is funded using U.S. Department of Agriculture Grant Funds.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender
