About IATP

MISSION: IATP works locally and globally at the intersection of policy and practice to ensure fair and sustainable food, farm and trade systems.

Vision: IATP envisions agriculture, trade, and food systems that are good for people, farmers and food system workers, eco-systems, and social justice globally. To grow these systems requires a long-term, sustained effort to build and mobilize public will, to invigorate and fortify political will, and to effectively democratize power relationships. 

The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy has a 30-year history of pursuing cutting edge solutions that benefit family farmers, rural communities and the planet. Our work extends from advocating for more democratic and economically just trade agreements to advocacy for stronger public health protections in chemical policy, to spearheading Farm to Head Start programs. Connecting the dots has made IATP unique in that we match high-level research and analysis with on-the-ground engagement to bring policies to fruition. Our technical expertise and credibility within a variety of fields has enabled us to serve as a convener, collaborator, and trusted source for NGOs, policymakers, and public agencies around the world. Our location in Minnesota is fortunate and strategic, as the deep tradition of civic engagement in this state has allowed us a laboratory to test innovative solutions that have been replicated around the country and world. Learn more about our current issues here.

The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy was founded amidst the family farm crisis of the mid-1980s as family farmers across America were in the fight of their lives. Deeply flawed national and international policies were part of the root cause of the crisis. Learn more about IATP’s history.