Food Systems Partnership Manager

The Michigan Good Food Fund (MGFF) is a statewide food financing collaborative investing in enterprises that expand equitable economic opportunity, improve healthy food access, and strengthen Michigan’s local food economy.

Since 2015, MGFF has deployed over $17 million in loans and grants to support 300+ Michigan-based food businesses. Through a combination of financing, technical assistance, and ecosystem collaboration, MGFF helps entrepreneurs grow resilient food businesses.

MGFF is administered by Fair Food Network (FFN), a national nonprofit based in Detroit advancing equitable food systems through policy, programs, and capital investment.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Food Systems Partnership Manager to drive relationship development and ecosystem engagement across Michigan’s food and farm economy.

This position is Michigan-based with a preference for West Michigan.

This role is critical to building and strengthening MGFF’s pipeline of mission-aligned businesses by cultivating relationships with entrepreneurs, organizations, and ecosystem partners.

This is a relationship-focused role —not a lending, underwriting, or technical assistance position.

You’ll work closely with the MGFF Director, Investment Manager, lending partners, and stakeholders across the state to identify and advance opportunities aligned with MGFF’s healthy food financing mission.

Key Responsibilities

Statewide Engagement & Outreach

• Identify and cultivate relationships with food and farm businesses aligned with MGFF’s mission
• Represent MGFF at conferences, industry events, community gatherings, and partner convenings
• Increase awareness of MGFF resources across Michigan’s food ecosystem

Pipeline & Ecosystem Development

• Build and maintain relationships to strengthen MGFF’s pipeline of potential investments
• Connect businesses with relevant MGFF and FFN programs, financing pathways, and support services

Relationship Management

• Support long-term relationship development with entrepreneurs and partners
• Maintain consistent communication and engagement across the ecosystem
• Continue relationship development post-financing or program participation

What You Bring

• 3+ years of relevant experience in food systems, economic development, impact investing, or related fields
• Proven experience building and managing relationships across sectors
• Background working with food or farm businesses and entrepreneurs in West Michigan preferred
• Strong communication skills, including presenting to diverse audiences
• Understanding of community-based economic development and healthy food systems
• Ability to navigate multiple stakeholders and collaborative partnerships
• Willingness to travel across Michigan

Who You Are

• Mission-driven and passionate about equitable food systems
• Relationship builder with strong ecosystem awareness
• Solutions-oriented with strong analytical thinking
• Diplomatic communicator who builds trust across diverse groups
• Adaptable and resilient in dynamic environments
• Growth-oriented with a commitment to continuous learning

Why Join Us

• Help shape the future of Michigan’s equitable food economy
• Competitive compensation + comprehensive benefits (health, 401k match, PTO, family leave)
• Opportunity to apply your skills toward meaningful social impact
• Work alongside passionate, mission-driven colleagues

Apply Now

Join us in building a food system that nourishes communities, drives economic opportunity, and supports environmental resilience .