PROJECTS

Zilke Vegetable Farm

Zilke Vegetable Farm
About: New year-round retail shop and kitchen space in Milan, Michigan.
Location: Milan, Michigan
Investment: $30,000 Loan
Partners: Northern Initiatives
Impact:

Creation of 2-3 jobs and new 2,500 square foot retail space plus kitchen facility.

Vicki and Tom Zilke have been providing fresh, healthy food at affordable prices since transitioning from previous careers to full-time farming in 2009 in the wake of the recession. What started as a five-acre homestead has over the years grown into a full-fledged 60-member CSA, farm stand, and regular presence at markets across Southeast Michigan. In January 2018, Michigan Good Food Fund provided a $30,000 loan through Northern Initiatives to Zilke Vegetable Farm that is supporting the Zilkes in transiting their farm stand to a year-round retail space plus kitchen facility to begin processing fruits and vegetables. The Zilke’s newest venture will increase access to fresh produce all-year long, while creating jobs and increasing opportunities for area farmers.

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