Join us at beautiful Wolfe's Neck Center for a dynamic convening that brings together the Maine Food Funders Network and the Maine Climate & Environmental Funders Network for a half-day of learning, strategy, and connection. In a period marked by federal funding contraction, this event spotlights the crucial role that local and regional networks in the food and environmental sectors are playing right now, and offers funders pathways to engage and support these important efforts.

Through a moderated discussion with funders, network leaders, and nonprofit practitioners, we will explore how networks and coalitions act as impact multipliers, from ensuring that information and resources reach those who need them most, to generating innovative and strategic solutions in response to emerging issues. Participants will be introduced to networks and key players in the fields, gain insights into effective network funding strategies, hear real-world examples of network-led solutions, and discover how funders can thoughtfully support and strengthen the collective structures already in place. In the spirit of successful networks, the philanthropic community can come together to preserve the organizations and initiatives we all value in these uncertain times, while also positioning Maine to be resilient well into the future.

Agenda:

• 9a  Panel Discussion & Funder Q&A
  •  Moderated by Amie Hutchison, Community Partner: Animal Welfare, Nature-Based Education, Sewall Foundation; & Kristina Kalolo, Community Partner: Food Systems, Sewall Foundation
• 11:15a Updates & Upcoming: Announcements & Reports from the Field
• 12p  Networking Lunch
• 1p  30 min Tours of Wolfe's Neck Center, two options:
  • Andrew Lombardi, Director of Visitor Education and Experience, will provide an overview of the experiential learning opportunities WNC provides to people of all ages on site through workshops, tours, and youth programs that promote an understanding of the connections between food, agriculture, climate change and the environment. 
  • Tom Prohl, Senior Manager for Farming Operations, will provide an overview of WNC's regenerative agriculture practices on site through dairy, small livestock, and crop production operations, as well as the related farmer training programs and research projects.  

Please let us know if you need any accommodations in order to participate fully. Your event registration fees support presenter compensation, our nonprofit host, local food providers, and the staff that power these two networks. If you would like to attend but cost is prohibitive, please reach out to Tyler Kidder at tyler@mainephilanthropy.org for low-cost attendance options.