About PPGC

PPGC is a farmer-led ingredients company

We grow and market Kernza®, the world’s first perennial grain, empowering farmers and delivering regenerative ingredients for brands.

A Little History

In 2021, Minnesota organic farmer Carmen Fernholz drafted the earliest plans for this new cooperative. Engaging other farmers in his vision, a farmer-led steering committee was formed and the cooperative was launched. Today the PPGC represents more than 30 farmers spread across eight states: Minnesota, Nebraska, Montana, Wisconsin, North and South Dakota, Iowa, and Wyoming.

Kernza’s commercial launch is the result of an unprecedented coalition of land grant universities, farmers, research partners, processors, and CPG companies from 15 states and 10 countries, including leadership from The Land Institute and the University of Minnesota’s Forever Green Initiative.

What We Believe

Regenerative

Deep roots that rebuild soil health and sequester carbon

Sustainable

Reduces water usage and prevents nutrient runoff

Cooperative

Farmer-owned model that ensures fair returns

Midwest Farmers

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Growing perennial grains across multiple states

Acres Planted

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Regenerative perennial grain production

Harvest Years

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From a single planting cycle

We represent over sixty farmers in the Midwest that are growing Kernza

As a farmer-led cooperative we offer a number of benefits for our members. Between technical assistance, collective marketing and grower events, we are here to advocate for farmers that are stewarding their land for the generations to come.

Membership Benefits

Collaborative Marketing

Collaborative crop marketing is a core element of farmer membership, connecting you with premium buyers.

Equitable Agreements

Equitable agreements are brokered between members and buyers, ensuring fair pricing and terms.

Research Partnership

Research institutions work with us to test and expand the production of Kernza for better yields.
Our Leadership

Perennial Promise Board

Wendy Johnson

President

Kurt Kimber

Vice President

Alex Heikkinen

Secretary

Mark Rieland

Treasurer

Jay Peterson

Board Member

Leroy Petersen

Board Member

Carmen Fernholz

Advisor

Debbie Stewart

Advisor

Glenn Wertheim

Advisor

Jeff Loehr

Advisor

Alyse Festenstein

Advisor

Jess Troendle

Advisor

Join the Perennial Revolution

Whether you’re a farmer interested in growing Kernza®, a food brand seeking sustainable ingredients, or a supporter of regenerative agriculture, we invite you to connect with us.