Make/Grow Local Competitors

American Farmland Trust (AFT) began in 1980 after a small group of farmers and conservationists asked an important question: What will happen to the nation's food supply if we continue to wastefully develop our best farm and ranch land? Peggy McGrath Rockefeller, the wife of philanthropist David Rockefeller, was one of AFT's founding members. Peggy was a dedicated and accomplished farmer, raising purebred cattle on farms in Maine and upstate New York. Guided by Rockefeller, noted soil conservationist Norm Berg, California farmer Ralph Grossi, and others, AFT focused in the early years on pioneering programs around the country that use a powerful tool – conservation easements – to make the nation's best farmland off limits to developers. From the early days, AFT has been a strong advocate for voluntary conservation practices and programs that preserve not just land but also our precious soil and water supplies. In the 40+ years since AFT began, we've seen farmland preservation transform into a national movement that has protected well over five million acres nationwide. Of course, there is much more work to be done. Today, AFT is dedicated to preserving the nation's farm and ranch land – and critical natural resources like soil and water. We also make sure to never forget that it is people – our family farmers and ranchers – who feed us and sustain America. Please join us.

GrowNYC is a hands-on non-profit with a mission to empower all New Yorkers with equitable access to fresh, locally grown food and neighborhood green spaces, reduce waste, and care for the environment. GrowNYC was originally created in 1970 as the Council on the Environment of New York City (CENYC). Born out of the spirit of the first Earth Day, CENYC was initially a policy-based organization, writing comprehensive reports about quality of life issues like air quality, traffic, and noise. Today, we serve over 3 million New Yorkers annually through a robust network of sustainability programs and resources. Our programs focus our efforts on four key areas: Food Access & Agriculture, Green Spaces, Zero Waste and Education. Since 1970, GrowNYC has been rolling up its sleeves alongside NYC residents to: - Provide access to healthy, fresh, local food for all New Yorkers -Grow and maintain vibrant green spaces and community gardens. -Help New Yorkers recycle more and reduce waste. -Create the next generation of environmental leaders through hands-on education programs.

Taste Buds Kitchen specializes in fresh and unique cooking events. Our mission is to delight our guests through delicious culinary entertainment experiences! What began as a few holiday baking classes and cupcake-making birthday parties under the name Cupcake Kids! has grown into a nationally recognized brand. Today, Taste Buds Kitchen offers a diverse array of hands-on cooking adventures, including classes, birthday parties, camps, and special events. With a well-balanced mix of savory and sweet recipes, we create fun and memorable experiences for all ages, from 2 to 99. Taste Buds Kitchen has expanded from its flagship location in New York City to multiple franchise locations across the United States—and we’re rapidly growing! Our franchisees bring the joy of culinary entertainment to communities nationwide, fostering connections, learning, and creativity in the kitchen. Recognized as the “Best Kids Cooking Class” by New York Magazine and featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, NBC, CBS, Fox News, and more, Taste Buds Kitchen is proud to be a leader in the culinary entertainment industry. Looking for a business opportunity with a proven model and national acclaim? Taste Buds Kitchen offers franchise opportunities for passionate entrepreneurs ready to bring our engaging cooking experiences to their communities. Join us in spreading the joy of cooking and create your own success story with Taste Buds Kitchen.