F3 is centered around three key focus areas, referred to as gears:
1) F3 Innovate
2) AgTEC Workforce
3) F3 Local
Each of these gears plays a crucial role in driving the initiative forward. Below is a brief overview of each one.
F3 Innovate
F3 Innovate is a newly launched 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing the nation’s leading hub for climate-smart agrifood technology and engineering. Its mission is to bridge the gap between groundbreaking university research and the practical needs of growers and communities that need it most. By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, F3 Innovate offers a fresh approach to advancing our agricultural economy, embracing innovations like AI, automation, carbon storage, and more. To learn more, visit f3innovate.org.
AgTEC Workforce
The AgTEC program is designed to develop a skilled, next-generation workforce equipped to support advanced and sustainable food production and manufacturing. It features Competency-Based Education, industry-aligned interdisciplinary training, and strong connections between talent and the industry. Insights gathered from over 12,000 regional farmworker surveys helped shape the curriculum, which is now being implemented at seven community colleges across our area. Our ultimate goal is to empower this vital workforce, guiding them toward higher-paying jobs in the evolving agricultural sector and fostering economic upward mobility for both workers and their families.
F3 Local
The local element of F3 focuses on supporting small food business owners—think of your local elote cart vendor—and helping them grow their businesses if they wish to expand. For example, F3 Local aims to assist small farmers in securing procurement contracts with local institutions like school districts or hospitals, allowing them to earn more from their harvests. By providing guidance in business development, we can help these hard-working entrepreneurs and farmers increase their revenue, build wealth, and thrive. One key highlight in this area is the creation of a Food Hub Center located at Saint Rest Baptist Church in Southwest Fresno, where small food entrepreneurs can enhance their skills, families can learn healthy cooking habits, and food is distributed to the community—a true win-win-win.
The F3 Initiative, through its focus on innovation, workforce development, and local support, represents a transformative vision for the future of our agricultural economy. By embracing new technologies, equipping the next generation of workers, and empowering small business owners and farmers, F3 aims to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for everyone in our region. Together, we can elevate the Valley’s ag industry and ensure that the benefits are felt by all members of our community. The work has just begun, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. To learn more about the F3 Initiative please visit, f3initiative.org.