Agriculture and food entrepreneurship are cornerstones of the Vermont economy, and important reflections of the communities that create these products. However, important gaps in information and resources are preventing Vermont from realizing the full potential that African diaspora food traditions have to contribute to this dynamic. To further grow our economy, build community, and provide new opportunities for food entrepreneurs, these gaps need to be filled.

The Clemmons Family Farm is partnering with UVM Extension and UVM’s Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences to create the African Diaspora Foodways Institute. The Institute will focus on growing crops in the African food traditions, providing culinary education, and supporting a new generation of food entrepreneurs with professional training and other services.

Extension staff will support marketing and tourism promotion for the Institute as a way to help these entrepreneurs realize the potential they have to thrive in Vermont’s food tourism economy.  UVM’s Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences will assist in creating the professional development and training programs for the entrepreneurs.

Clemmons Family Farm, Inc is a non-profit organization based in Charlotte, Vermont that seeks to preserve the historic Clemmons Farm, which is an official site of the Vermont African American Heritage Trail. Their mission also includes empowering Vermont’s artists who specialize in African diaspora arts and cultures, and building a dynamic and multicultural community.

UVM Extension integrates education, research and outreach to help Vermonters put knowledge to work for their families, farms, businesses, towns and the natural environment. 

UVM’s Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences pursues research and education to improve community health, increase food safety and security, and establish more sustainable food systems.

Video: African Diaspora Culinary Entrepreneurs' Meeting

This video documents the first African diaspora culinary entrepreneurs' meeting organized by the African Diaspora Foodways Institute of Vermont. Thirteen entrepreneurs attended the meeting, which was held in June 2025 at the Clemmons Farm.

Reading Room of African Diaspora Culinary Heritage Books

The African Diaspora Foodways Institute has curated a library of books that celebrate African-American and African diaspora culinary heritage, and other cuisines from around the globe.  

The books will be available to foodways entrepreneurs who participate in the Institute's on-farm residency programs and professional development workshops.  

The library is also a wonderful resource for anyone with an interest in this area.  

Visit the Reading Room.