Giving Compass' Take:

• Jessie Bovay explains how Mercaris is building a stronger global food system through information and transparency, improving conditions for farmers and consumers. 

• How can funders impact the global food system at scale? Where can you begin strengthening your local food system? 

• Learn about the food system in the TEEBAgriFood report. 

Jessie Bovay is Director of Business Development at Mercaris, an organization that provides information on market conditions for organic and non-GMO commodities, allowing buyers and sellers to trade online. Bovay seeks out opportunities to move identity preserved crops to market and make information about these crops more accessible across the supply chain.

FT: How are you helping to build a better food system?

JB:  A better food system for all includes variety, choice, and value from the producer to the plate. At Mercaris we work to make the very unclear world of organic, non-GMO, and otherwise identity preserved crops—those with specific characteristics and standards meant to fit the needs of the targeted consumer—-more transparent. From opportunities to buy and sell crops, to information about pricing and demand, we create transparency.

FT: What’s the most pressing issue in food and agriculture that you’d like to see solved?

JB: The United Nations (UN) estimates that the world’s population will grow to more than 9 billion in 2050 and; I want to be part of the solutions to feeding that growing population. The solutions to food insecurity and access will come from worldwide collaboration of universities, organizations, businesses, and people.

FT: What is the best opportunity for young or aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs to get a foothold in America’s agricultural future?

JB: Young and aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs can gain a foothold in the future of agriculture by learning from experienced farmers and entrepreneurs. While there are many opportunities for innovation and change within the agricultural industry, experienced farmers have a wealth of knowledge to pass down to the next generation of farmers and entrepreneurs.

Read the full interview with Jessie Bovay about building a stronger food system by Katherine Walla at Food Tank.