Our Story
The Savanna Institute grew out of a grassroots gathering of Midwestern farmers, graduate students, and community members interested in ecological agriculture. Together, around a table on a farm in central Illinois, the volunteer group started building a network and a nonprofit organization to support perennial farmers in the region.
Our Purpose
Inspired by the oak savanna native to the region, we envision a multifunctional agriculture in the Midwest US based on agroforestry systems of integrated trees, crops, and livestock that fosters ecological resilience, climate stability, economic prosperity, and vibrant communities.
Our Staff
Based throughout the region, our staff bring to the organization a wide range of experiences, expertise, and educational backgrounds in agroforestry, regenerative agriculture, livestock grazing, ecology, tree crops, new market development, education, communications, and more.
Meet Our Board
Leaders in agriculture, business, and philanthropy guide Savanna Institute’s nonprofit mission on our Board of Directors.
Our Advisors
Our Advisory Council is made up of practitioners in farming, finance, and food marketing who inform our programs and services.
Our Funders
Thank you to the generous donors who make our work for the public good possible.
Meet Our Partners
A network of collaborators work together to make agroforestry a widespread practice across the region and the country.
Press Inquiries
Find press resources for covering agroforestry and other topics related to perennial agriculture.
Career Opportunities
See the latest job opportunities at the Savanna Institute and with our partners.