Your path to an impactful food policy career starts here
Our approach
Transform your passion for food systems into real policy impact.
Food Policy Pathways is more than a mentorship program—we’re a full-service career development and talent matching organization designed to connect you with the tools, networks, and guidance needed to thrive in government food policy roles. Through one-on-one career planning, professional branding support, and access to experienced mentors, we are the first stop on your path toward a meaningful career in food policy.
Our services
We help you achieve career success through personalized support and a powerful network–all free of charge.
Chart your path
Career planning and goal mapping
Role identification and fit assessment
Customized professional development
One-on-one advising
Join a powerful network
Mentorship matching
Personalized introductions to food policy professionals and communities
Access to a comprehensive database of food policy experts
Access to food and agriculture events
Land your dream job
Access to a curated database of open food policy roles across the country
Application and interview preparation
Resume and professional branding support
Personalized future employer introductions
Once you secure a role, we’ll keep in touch by continuing to share professional development events, supporting you in your next career moves, and, hopefully, partnering with you as a mentor for future leaders!
“Rachel played a crucial role in launching my career. She helped me secure my position in city government, sent me over 30 networking opportunities, and connected me with more than 50 professionals, leading to countless conversations, collaborations, and friendships.”
— City Policy Analyst
Who we’re looking for
Food Policy Pathways is designed for exceptional individuals committed to driving meaningful change in food policy. Ideal candidates will meet the following criteria:
Strong passion for food policy: A demonstrated interest in impactful food systems change and policy work, even if that work isn’t yet on your resume.
Proven track record or potential for excellence: Relevant experience or a strong academic background in fields such as food systems, animal welfare, agriculture, nutrition, public health, environmental science, rural development, economics, political science, or a related area.
Ambitious career goals: A clear aspiration to work in policy or political roles within local, state, or federal government, with the drive to lead transformational initiatives.
Commitment to rigorous engagement: The time and dedication to engage in mentorship, training, and career development. Depending on career stage and experience, candidates should dedicate 5-10 hours per month to our partnership.
We welcome applications from recent grads and early-career individuals, mid-career professionals looking to pivot into food policy, and those already working in policy who want to amplify their impact.
Please note: This program is focused exclusively on supporting candidates pursuing roles within United States government institutions, including city/county, state, and federal positions. Therefore, we can only accept candidates who currently reside in the United States and are authorized to work here.
Application process
Here's how to begin your journey toward a high-impact food policy career:
Submit our intake form to share your experience, career goals, and vision for impact in food policy.
Our team will review your application to assess alignment with our mission and services.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 30-minute consultation to discuss their aspirations and explore how we can support their career growth.
Following the consultation, we’ll carefully review your application and notify you of our decision.
Those accepted into the our program gain full access to our personalized career strategy services, rigorous job search support, extensive professional network, ongoing mentorship, and more.
If you’re dedicated to making a difference in food policy and want to learn more about how we can support you, please submit our intake form. We can’t wait to hear from you!