US Hosts
US Hosts for International Stewards
Grow the future of sustainable agriculture — one farmer at a time.
You've built something worth sharing. MESA's SAGE program connects your farm, nonprofit, or ag business with a passionate international Steward eager to learn, contribute, and exchange knowledge across cultures. Hosting is a two-way partnership that strengthens your operation while building the global movement for sustainable food systems.
Why host a MESA Steward?
Hosts tell us hosting a Steward is one of the most rewarding things they've done — for their farm and for themselves. You gain a motivated, pre-vetted agricultural professional who brings fresh perspectives, new techniques, and deep commitment to ecological farming. In return, you offer hands-on training, cultural immersion, and a place in a worldwide network of sustainable agriculture leaders.
Whether you're a small diversified farm, a community food organization, or an agricultural research center, there's a Steward who fits your work — and who will leave your operation stronger than they found it.
What MESA handles for you
We take care of the logistics so you can focus on training.
J-1 visa sponsorship
Fully managed by MESA — no immigration paperwork on your end.
Health insurance
Comprehensive medical plan provided by MESA for each Steward.
Tax & payroll
MESA withholds and files federal taxes — no payroll burden for you.
24/7 support
Coordinator support throughout your Steward's entire placement.
Educational reimbursement
$150 toward a conference, webinar, workshop &/or online MESA course enrollment for your Steward.
How payments work
Each month, Hosts pay MESA a service fee plus the Steward's stipend. MESA then disburses the stipend to your Steward and handles all tax withholding — no payroll management required.
In some cases, MESA can authorize first-time Stewards to receive wages — talk to us about what works best for your placement. Nonprofits and education-focused organizations are encouraged to reach out about flexible stipend and program length options.
Who makes a great Host?
MESA partners with operations of all sizes — small diversified farms, community food organizations, agricultural research centers, and more — that share a commitment to ecological agriculture and farmer-to-farmer learning. Great Hosts can typically offer:
- Up to 40 hours/week of varied, hands-on training (averaged across a season)
- Free lodging and meals, or a food allowance
- Opportunities for cultural engagement and community connection
- Practices in organic, biodynamic, agroecological, permaculture, or related methods
- A spirit of openness — you'll learn as much as you teach
Two programs, one network
Sustainable Agriculture & Global Exchange
For first-time international Stewards. 6–12 month placements in production, distribution, education, research, and more.
Next Level Program
For returning MESA alumni ready for management-level experience. Hosts may offer wages in lieu of housing and food.
Regardless of which program suits you, US Host partners are welcomed into MESA's global network of sustainable farmers and food systems advocates.
Ready to host a MESA Steward?
Questions? Email us or call 510.654.8858 — we'd love to find the right match for your operation.
