We are excited to announce that enrollment for the 2026 Rising Roots Program is now open!

Apply below

Rising Roots is a program that helps Pierce County young people, ages 16-24, learn about indoor farming and build important skills for their future. You’ll get hands-on experience with hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil. You’ll learn how to plant, grow, harvest, and care for crops. On top of that, the program includes business coaching to help you succeed in the farming industry. It’s a great chance to explore farming while building skills that can open up new opportunities!

                                                                                                         Start Date: TBD
                                                                                                         Days: Tuesdays & Thursdays
                                                                                                         Time: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
                                                                                                         Duration: 10 weeks

What You’ll Learn:

A. Farming:

    1. Hydroponic Farming: Hydroponics is a way to grow microgreens, herbs, and lettuce without soil by using water mixed with nutrients. This method is efficient, saves space and water, and allows plants to grow faster, often indoors or in small areas.
    2. Traditional Farming Methods: Learn how to run and maintain a hydroponic farm, including system management and crop care.
    3. Sustainability: Sustainability in farming means growing food in ways that protect the environment, conserve natural resources, and support long-term agricultural productivity. It focuses on practices like reducing waste, using renewable resources, and maintaining healthy soil and ecosystems for future generations.

B. Business Skills:

    1. Gain insights into starting and managing a small business within the agricultural sector.

Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate in hydroponics and urban gardening.

Questions? Contact the Rising Roots Program Coordinator at RisingRoots@themadfseattle.org.

Apply here:

Rising Roots (Formerly Feeding Our Future) Program Application (Current)

Rising Roots Application

Option 1: Please complete the entire application and answer all required questions before submitting.

Option 2: If you prefer a paper application, please email RisingRoots@themadfseattle.org.

Applicant Information

Household Size & Income Information

Entrepreneurial Interests

Business Idea

Farming

Leadership and Teamwork

Availability

This program is a 10-week cohort; meeting twice a week via in-person on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.

Criminal History

*(NOTE: Disclosing information in this section WILL NOT disqualify you from participation but helps us better understand your background.)

Program Support

Please provide the names of two people who can offer you support, encouragement, and guidance throughout this 10-week program.

Reference 1

Reference 2

Emergency Contact Information

Sign Here

Parent/Guardian Consent (For applicants under age 18)

I, the parent/guardian of the applicant, consent to their participation in the Rising Roots Program and agree to support their commitment to the program.

Sign Here

Thank You for Completing This Application!

The Rising Roots Team will contact you regarding the next steps. If you have any questions or need additional information, please email us at RisingRoots@themadfseattle.org