our theory of change.

Over the past decade, Real Food Challenge has developed a robust theory of change aimed at revolutionizing university procurement practices. By harnessing the collective power of student activism, providing technical guidance to decision-makers, and advocating for real food standards nationally, our movement seeks to redirect university spending toward local, ethical, and sustainable sources, particularly uplifting BIPOC producers. We believe in the pivotal role of students in holding administrators accountable and strengthening procurement efforts through campus organizing.

Recognizing the complexity of food systems activism, we stand in solidarity with food sovereignty organizations across all levels of the movement, emphasizing regional supply chain justice as our primary focus. We envision universities as anchors for re-regionalizing value chains, sourcing food from diverse, organic, and BIPOC producers reflective of their respective regions.

At the core of our approach lies the conversion of student mobilization into tangible outcomes, guided by the Real Food Standards and measured through the Real Food Calculator. This data-driven advocacy tool holds universities accountable and empowers students to influence policy changes toward a more equitable and sustainable food system.

Our Real Meals Campaign targets the "Big 3" food service management companies, urging campuses to shift procurement away from them and toward self-operated dining that supports local and marginalized farmers. By pressuring institutions to cut contracts that don't align with real food procurement, we compel these companies to reconsider their practices or risk losing lucrative contracts. Through this multi-layered strategy, we drive change at both individual campuses and on a broader, multi-state level.

Looking ahead, we aim to deepen and expand our Real Meals Campaign by increasing student and campus involvement, empowering students to hold their universities accountable, and supporting food sourcing teams. By continuing to mobilize students and strengthen partnerships, Real Food Challenge endeavors to transform campuses into beacons of sustainable procurement practices, fostering change and justice throughout the food system.