International Agriculture

Empowering the next generation of leaders in agriculture

The International Agriculture team at CSU Spur is made up of conveners, storytellers, and innovators who build platforms and collaborate to support international agriculture through the CSU System. With local, national, and international partners, International Agriculture at CSU Spur addresses global grand challenges and empowers the next generation of leaders.

At the core of the mission are two pivotal programs: North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN) and the Colorado GROW Youth Institute.

NAAAN: Bridging Rural Advisory Services in North America

The North American Agricultural Advisory Network (NAAAN) hosted by the CSU System represents a partnership platform uniting Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the realm of rural advisory services and extension. Through knowledge development and management, networking, and policy advocacy, the NAAAN is focused on three key thematic areas: biodefense and disaster management for resilient communities, enhancing soil health and water management for sustainable agriculture, and empowering youth through skill development and career opportunities.

Colorado GROW Youth Institute: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Ag Leaders

A partnership with CSU Spur, CAM’s Ag Academy, and the Office of Extension and Engagement, GROW’s mission is to equip and inspire Colorado educators and students through a problem-based learning curriculum addressing global challenges that impact food security in Colorado and the western region. The goal is to expand this pilot program and form a Western States GROW Youth Institute in collaboration with Colorado’s neighboring states and the World Food Prize Foundation network of youth institutes.