Roots and Rewards
The Iowa Food Cooperative is once again offering a tiered membership program designed to bring you closer to the producers and community you love while unlocking exclusive benefits. Plus, by choosing local, sustainably produced food, you’ll enjoy fresher, nutrient-dense options that support your family’s health and wellness while promoting a resilient Iowa food system. Whether you’re a casual shopper or a dedicated local food champion, there’s a level for you!
We began the tiered membership program as a step to regain our financial footing after the loss of the LFPA grant program in 2025. Its success helped us continue our work of connecting producers and consumers of local food, at a time when our bank balance was decreasing each month.
We would love to be able to grow, beautify our space, and contribute more to our community. Fundraising through the Roots and Rewards program can help us do that.
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Perks will take effect starting October 1st. Registration for October 2026 – September 2027 is open through December 2026.
Membership Tiers
$50
$10 annual renewal
Before joining as a higher tier member, you need a basic IFC membership on our website.
Basic membership fees are paid with your third order at the co-op, after the 2-cycle trial period. We offer FREE memberships for EBT card holders! Already a member and not looking to upgrade? You’re good to go!
$75
for 1 year
NEW! Local Loyalists will receive our special 2026 merch item as thanks for their contribution to the Co-op: a sweet printed bandana.
$250
for 1 year
Our Community Cultivator tier gives you a discount on order fees and a special welcome gift. We’ll also give you a shout out on our website for your contribution to our community!
$500
for 1 year
Our Sustaining Steward tier shows you a look behind the scenes with tours of our producer members’ farms and meet the maker experiences, plus a co-op tote bag for your groceries!
$1000
for 1 year
Our Farmer’s Friend tier gives you the ultimate co-op experience with exclusive merch, first access to online shopping, and giftable memberships so you can spread the love to your favorite local foodies!
Additional Information
Why does IFC charge customers a 15% fee?
The 15% supports IFC staff and infrastructure. At the Iowa Food Co-op, producers receive 68.5¢ for each dollar spent, versus 15.5¢ at a traditional grocery store. Our goal is to return as much money as we can to the producer.
What is included in your basic $50 membership fee? Â
Be part of a food community
- Easy access to 100+ producers across Iowa
- Know your farmer, know your food and feel better about what you eat
- Friendly customer service-Â our staff cares about you!
Shop from the comfort of home year-round
- Online shopping makes finding what you want simple
- Shop local produce, dairy, meat, snacks, and more even when the farmer’s market is closed
- Home delivery available, or convenient pickup at our store or one of our satellite locations
Eco-friendly practices
- Our model is very low waste! We move products quickly and strive for minimal packaging
- Onsite composting service available
- Support small farmers that nurture the environment for a better Iowa
If I invest in local foods by increasing my membership level, how does it affect the 15% fee for basic members?Â
- $1000 Farmers Friend : No co-op fee.
- $500 Sustaining Steward: 5% fee.
- $250 Community Cultivator: 10% fee.
- $50 Basic Members: 15% fee
What’s included in the monthly member-only experiences?
Depending on your membership level, you’ll get invites to unique experiences like chef-led farm-to-table dinner and behind-the-scenes farm tours. These are designed to bring you closer to the land, the food, and the people who make IFC so special!
Will my shopping schedule change if I upgrade?
While our bi-weekly shopping cycle will stay the same for all members, our highest tier supporters, Farmer’s Friends, will get First Look Shopping Access, allowing you to browse and purchase before the general shopping window opens.
Will my membership auto-renew?
Not at this time. We’ll remind you when it’s time to renew, and you can choose to continue at your current level or adjust based on your needs.
How will I be recognized as a higher-level member?
Higher-tier members receive recognition in-store and on our website.
How does my upgraded membership support the co-op?
Your upgraded membership directly supports local producers, helps cover operating costs, and allows IFC to host educational events and experiences that grow our vibrant food community.
