The Mayor’s Local Food Challenge returns July 1 and Lincoln city leaders are encouraging businesses, schools, restaurants and other organizations to sign up and commit to buying more locally produced food.
The challenge runs through October 31 and recognizes organizations that source food from farmers and suppliers within 250 miles of Lincoln. Participants earn bronze, silver, gold or platinum recognition based on the number of local food orders they place during the 18-week program.
Lincoln Chief Sustainability Officer Kim Morrow says the program helps strengthen the local economy while improving access to fresh food. “If every Lincoln metro resident spent $5 a week on local food, or had spent for them, it would generate $91 million annually for regional farms,” Morrow says
“Local food is fresher, tastier, and helps businesses and institutions connect with regional farmers.” The challenge had a strong debut in 2025. Twenty-one organizations placed 289 orders with 38 regional farmers and suppliers, spending nearly $600,000 on local food products.
Participants included Lincoln Public Schools, Bryan Health, Hudl, Duncan Aviation, Open Harvest Co-op, Hub Cafe, Belmont Community Center and Matt Talbot Kitchen and Outreach. Morrow says buying local also keeps dollars circulating in the community, supports jobs, reduces transportation emissions and promotes sustainable agriculture.
The city partners with Lone Tree Foods and Robinette Farms to help connect participants with regional producers and create food sourcing options that fit their needs. Organizations can participate through employee wellness programs, cafeteria food service, restaurant purchasing, farm-to-school initiatives or customized solutions.
For a link to registration click here.