Giving Compass' Take:

• Food Tank has compiled a list of 14 African-American female entrepreneurs who have incorporated sustainable food production practices into their businesses and who are working to create a more nutritious and healthy system. 

• How can donors help support more women in agriculture? What are the best ways women can help inspire one another to create a more sustainable food system in America?

• Here's why women are key for a more sustainable food system. 

According to the 2018 State of Women-Owned Businesses report, the number of women-owned businesses increased by 58 percent from 2007 to 2018. From this, businesses owned by African-American women grew by 164 percent, which is equal to 20 percent of all women-owned businesses. Not only does this provide a huge boost to the economy, it can create jobs in local communities.

Lynnette Astaire. Based out of Los Angeles, Lynette Astaire saw a gap that needed to be filled in food education and decided to open Superfood School. As part of the program at Superfood School, Astaire conducts one-on-one consults for meal planning and advice. Additionally, clients are able to attend retreats at LiveLoft, located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, to undergo a detox, where they receive juices and raw meals made from local produce and items grown on-site.

Tamala Austin. Located in Houston, Texas, Tamala Austin is the founder of J.I.V.E., which stands for Juicing is very essential. What started off as a home-based business is now located in Whole Foods stores in Houston. J.I.V.E. offers organic juices and smoothies, with both vegetarian and vegan options. Austin hopes to educate customers on the transition and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle that is enjoyable and sustainable.

Read the full article on African American women leading change in the U.S. food system by Angie Cerilli at Food Tank.