From Chickapea Farms to Mi Farm Network

Mi Farm Network, LLC grew organically from Chickapea Farms, a Michigan-based eco-artisan business founded in 2006 by a then-five-year-old Troy Walsh, who continues to lead it today.

Working with local farms to source materials for Chickapea Farms’ products, our customers often asked if we knew of nearby farms where they could make direct purchases. In response to these ongoing requests, and heightened by pandemic-era food concerns, we launched the "Shop Michigan Farms" Facebook group in 2020 to help support and connect small farms with consumers.

What began as a simple Facebook group has organically grown into a thriving community of over 19,000 members, with daily requests for better ways to locate and support local farms.

Recognizing this momentum, we established Mi Farm Network based on consumer demand, market research, and agricultural trends. Mi Farm Network is now poised for growth across Michigan and beyond.

Our lineage spans generations of farming experience, so we understand firsthand the dedication, challenges, and rewards of working the land. Pairing that with our 40-year background in professional marketing, we recognize not only how difficult it is to run a farm, but also to get its products seen by the right consumers. 

That’s why we are dedicated to standing strong in building support for mid-size farms to roadside stands.

As Mi Farm Network’s roots deepen and expand, we will continue to nurture both planned initiatives and organic opportunities, staying true to the spirit of “Local Supporting Local”.

At Mi Farm Network, every relationship matters. While some say, “It’s just business, don’t take it personally,” we do take it personally, and we always will. Authenticity, quality, heart-driven care, and a great deal of tenacity are not just lifestyle values to us; they also define our business style.

Mi Farm Network is committed to fostering food sovereignty by creating inclusive spaces for learning, exchange, and community empowerment. We honor tradition while embracing new opportunities for growth and connection.

Through collaboration, educational outreach, and engagement initiatives, we are building a thriving, people-powered farm-to-community network. Supported by a comprehensive website, a customized interactive farm map, and a strong, growing presence in digital and legacy media, we are strengthening connections between farms and their local communities with intention and care.

These connections promote direct purchase of goods, farm sustainability, healthy food access, and economic growth. They also inspire future generations to engage in agriculture.

Mi Farm Network will always be rooted in the people, cultivated by their ideas, and nourished by their feedback, as we work together to create a network grounded in respect, support, and meaningful relationships.