Why is SAFSF changing its membership model?
The last update to membership dues was nearly seven years ago. The new dues structure recognizes the diversity of our membership, includes more member benefits, and optimizes dues structures for comparability and sustainability for SAFSF.
How are membership dues changing?
- Membership is evolving to meet the needs of diverse capital partners within the Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Funders community. The dues restructure is connected to an expansion of member benefits.
- Dues are no longer based on “food and agriculture funding.” How funders define “food and agriculture” funding within their portfolio can vary greatly, and for some, may even be hard to track in those terms. We needed a baseline that is easier to track for members and more precise.
- We are introducing new member categories. Each member category has its own dues ranges. You can see the new dues tiers on our website now.
- We have also launched a new Individual Membership category! This category is an option for funders who meet one of these criteria: SAFSF member retirees, government employees, individual donors, and career transitions (time limited).
- Your dues are based on how your organization is built. As a membership organization of diverse capital partners, we looked for a more equitable approach to dues that takes into account the different types of funders in our community. Member dues are now based on something that best applies to the type of organization.
What was the process for making these updates?
SAFSF’s Board of Directors and staff began considering an update to membership dues in the fall of 2025. Together with the SAFSF Membership Committee and other members, the Board and staff received feedback and analyzed the funder network landscape, other membership dues structures, and our own membership needs to inform this new approach.
Are dues increasing across the board?
No. This update does not mean that dues are increasing across the board, some members may have dues that stay the same or even decrease. While SAFSF’s sustainability was one reason for the update, the main goal was a fairer approach that reflects the different types of funders in our community. Each dues category is based on how your organization is built. View the dues structure.
What new or expanded benefits can I expect as part of this change?
Starting in 2027, members now receive:
- 1 complimentary funder registration to Forum or other SAFSF event
- Invitation to lead SAFSF member-driven in-person events
- Quarterly member-only Data Insights Reports reporting on funding trends among SAFSF members. Complimentary subscription access to a new data analytics platform on funders, trends & grantees (announcement coming soon)
- Custom benchmarking data & consulting: Choose between a customized data benchmarking report, or up to 3 hours of consulting with SAFSF staff.
- Free on-demand online courses exploring SAFSF’s Food System Funding Model (in development)
View all of our member benefits.
When do the changes take effect?
For new members, the new dues structure applies to applications submitted October 15, 2026 and afterward. For current members, it takes effect for the 2027 calendar year with the renewal cycle beginning November 2, 2026. Pledges for 2027 membership are due by March 1, 2027.
How will SAFSF support members through this change?
For members with increases to their dues who prefer a longer planning period, SAFSF is offering a phased approach, with full implementation taking effect for the 2028 calendar year. We encourage members to be in touch about options available by emailing [email protected].
Can I process my dues as a grant?
Yes! Many organizations choose to process their SAFSF membership dues as a grant. . The option to process dues as a grant is available during the renewal process. A member of our team will follow up should you indicate grant as your payment method.