New Program Launches to Train Sustainable Agricultural Finance Leaders

By Around Cornell

A new leadership program aims to equip professionals with the tools to scale sustainable agriculture and strengthen food system resilience. The six-month Resilient Futures Leadership Program: Financing Sustainable Agriculture is now accepting applications through December 5, 2025. 

Hosted by Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture and the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, starting in early 2026 the program will bring together up to 30 early- to mid-career professionals to gain a practical understanding of regenerative practices, the agricultural value chain, sustainability indicators, policy signals, and innovative finance mechanisms, while engaging directly with leading voices from finance, agriculture, technology, and academia.

Graduates will complete a final project tied to their organization and join a cross-sector alumni network dedicated to financing resilient ecosystems and enhancing farmer livelihoods.

“Farmers increasingly recognize the long-term value of conservation practices, yet too often they do not see that value reflected in their bottom line,” said Carrie Vollmer-Sanders, President of Field to Market. “This program equips leaders with the skills to bridge that divide mobilizing finance to reward stewardship and deliver resilience for both farmers and the environment.”