Viva Farms is a non-profit organization that aims to preserve sustainable farming and create a stronger and more just local food system. They empower aspiring and limited-resource farmers by offering bilingual training in holistic organic farming practices, and provide access to land, infrastructure, equipment, marketing, and capital. Established in 2009, Viva Farms operates on 119 acres across two locations in Skagit County and one in King County, Washington.

They are committed to lowering the barriers for beginning farmers and cultivating opportunities for success. With their Farm Business Incubator and Training Program, Viva Farms has educated over 1,000 farmers, including more than 150 Spanish speakers, in sustainable organic farming practices. As an incubator, Viva Farms currently supports 29 farm businesses, 9 of which are Latino-owned and 44% female-owned.

Additionally, they anticipate having 40 students in their Practicum in Sustainable Agriculture in 2021. With its fertile soil nourished by rivers and surrounded by the Cascade Mountain Range and the Puget Sound, northwest Washington, particularly Skagit County, produces over 90 different food crops and is a vital region for the local and regional food economy. However, this region, like the rest of Western Washington, faces a farming crisis as the average age of farmers is 58 and retiring, while the number of farms, farmland acreage, and processing facilities are all decreasing.

To address this crisis, Viva Farms believes that sustainable organic farming can be a viable and prosperous business, and they strive to equip today's aspiring farmers with the knowledge, experience, and passion to become part of the solution that nourishes our planet and future generations. To support the Viva Farms mission and local farmers, you can donate now or sign up for Viva News to stay updated on their work