Black Urban Growers

Black Urban Growers (BUGs) is a volunteer-driven organization based in Brooklyn, NY that empowers growers across urban and rural communities through comprehensive education and advocacy around food and farm issues. Since 2010, BUGs has established itself as a leading force in agricultural equity by hosting America's largest annual conference dedicated to Black agriculture—the Black Farmers and Urban Gardeners National Conference. This flagship event brings together over 600 participants annually and has expanded to multiple cities across the country, including Detroit, Oakland, Atlanta, and Raleigh-Durham, while maintaining deep roots in the New York City Metropolitan area. The organization specializes in building networks and community support systems that strengthen the agricultural sector for growers of African descent. Through strategic partnerships and year-round programming, BUGs provides educational resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy platforms that address critical food and farm-related issues impacting health, community resilience, and economic security. The organization's work focuses on ensuring Black agricultural leadership has a meaningful seat at the table in national conversations about food systems, sustainability, and equity. BUGs combines practical farm education with systemic advocacy, creating pathways for participants to engage in food sovereignty and justice initiatives. The organization's impact extends beyond conference attendance, with numerous thriving partnerships and community initiatives originating from their annual gatherings. By nurturing collective Black agrarian leadership and reimagining Black futures through land-based stewardship, Black Urban Growers continues to advance equitable and sustainable food systems while honoring the cultural and historical significance of Black agricultural traditions.