LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky and Compass Group announced on June 26 a new purchasing strategy designed to expand opportunities for Kentucky farmers and food producers by leveraging the university's buying power to support agriculture across the state.

As part of UK's Enterprise Services Partnership, the organizations will launch a group purchasing organization (GPO) to increase access to Kentucky-grown products while creating more predictable markets for farmers. The GPO will connect Kentucky producers to consistent buyers — including UK, local schools and other institutions — at a significantly larger scale.

"This is about putting Kentucky first and using the scale we have at the university level to support the entire Commonwealth," said UK President Eli Capilouto.

The initiative builds on The Food Connection, UK's local food systems institute housed in the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. In the past three years, The Food Connection has facilitated more than $9 million in new farm sales, supported more than 40 new on-farm jobs and reached producers in 80 counties.

The GPO will also provide opportunities for organizations across Kentucky to access broader purchasing programs that reduce costs on food, supplies and other products. Recent state legislative efforts have underscored agriculture's importance to Kentucky's economy, with lawmakers approving significant funding increases for agricultural development and programs that expand local food purchasing in schools.

Eric Monday, UK's executive vice president for finance and administration, said the partnership strengthens supply chains and keeps economic activity in-state. UK and Compass Group are continuing to finalize contract details and the GPO structure. Once finalized, the university will share information about how organizations across the state can participate. The companies also plan to launch "Food Force One," a mobile food initiative designed to deliver meals, education and resources to Kentucky communities.