EkoRural works with urban and rural communities in the Central Highlands of Ecuador to strengthen local food systems. These agroecologically-based food systems provide access to healthy, local and affordable food for urban families as well as generate income, new social bonds and recognition of small farmers. We work with community based organizations such as farmers’ associations, civil society and academics to enhance the capacity of farmers engaged in agroecological practices. Our initiatives focus on alternative food networks that promote collective, direct-marketing arrangements between producers and consumers, community biodiversity management and seed banks that promote agrobiodiversity and resilience to climate change, soil health and restoration of the land and nutrition. These efforts support local mestiza and indigenous families, mostly led by women.