Community financing in the German organic food sector: a key for sustainable food systems?

Summary

The rise of socially responsible and impact investing funds provides evidence for an increased interest private investors have in combining their financial and ethical concerns. At the same time, citizens increasingly engage in food networks and take on a vital role in the governance of agri-food systems. These developments might benefit farms and firms which are committed to sustainable food and seek funding. Through different community financing models, they can involve citizens who aim to support the development of a more sustainable food system.
This contribution presents case study evidence on community financing in the German organic food sector and discusses the role it can play in food system transformation.