We are equipping students to become the next generation of ethical leaders, systems thinkers and effective advocates for a plant-centric future for our planet, people, and animals.

Our Mission

Plant Futures, a project of the nonprofit Ideagarden, is a social venture committed to accelerating the transition to a plant-centric world for planetary, human and animal well being by equipping and empowering the next generation of food system leaders with the necessary education, experience and network to become change makers.

Our Why

Our world is facing urgent challenges. The climate is warming at an alarming rate, global hunger is on the rise, and countless animals suffer needlessly. But we believe that there's one solution that can address these pressing issues: fixing our broken $8 trillion food system. At Plant Futures, we're committed to doing so by accelerating the transition to a plant-centric future.

Why Plants?

Imagine a future where our food system is centered around plants. It's not only the most efficient and effective way to meet our current and future needs but also holds the key to solving the climate crisis, fostering health, and ending animal suffering.

Climate Impact

The production of food generates 1/3rd of all planet-heating gasses emitted by human activity, with meat and animal feed accounting for nearly 60% of all greenhouse gasses generated by the food sector.

Animal Welfare

Our current system perpetuates the abuse of billions of farm animals. By embracing a plant-centric approach, we can spare these innocent lives and create a more compassionate world.

Human Health

A plant-centric diet offers many health benefits, including lower risks of heart disease, certain cancers, and type 2 diabetes, as well as promoting overall well-being and longevity.

Why Students?

We believe in the power of the next generation to drive change. That's why we're actively building a global network of diverse college and graduate students committed to action.

Equipped with multidisciplinary education, professional expertise, and key relationships, they are the catalysts for this critical transition.

Our How

We're making an impact through various initiatives:

We've developed a groundbreaking food systems course, the first of its kind, aimed at exposing students to the challenges affecting our food system and presenting them with viable solutions.

Challenge Lab → Impact Lab →
With a robust network spanning 40+ colleges nationwide, our chapters bring together a diverse group of students dedicated to addressing food system issues both on campus and beyond.
Our commitment lies in inspiring and empowering students to pursue values-aligned careers. We offer valuable mentorship opportunities, exploratory career events, and internship programs that provide hands-on experience, preparing students for impactful roles in the field.

Our unique approach has proven time and time again that when students, professionals, academics, and industry leaders come together, real change happens. Their synergy sparks conscious, strategic, and systems-level-thinking inspired solutions.

Our Impact

Meet a few of our remarkable students who, having successfully completed our programs, are now making significant contributions to the sustainable and plant-centric food space.