Welcome to the Mandaamin website!

Maize, or corn, is the world’s most cultivated cereal crop, nourishing civilizations in North and South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe. However, its significant fertilizer needs contribute to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, impacting our climate and water systems.

At the Mandaamin Institute, our mission is to breed maize that embodies its full potential while adapting to an uncertain future. We’ve spent 36 years developing hybrids through an innovative, observation-based breeding approach on organic farms. Our hybrids partner with beneficial microbes to obtain nutrients, minimizing the need for fertilizers and reducing environmental damage while increasing the plant’s nutritional value.

By nurturing these symbiotic relationships, our climate-friendly corn offers yields that rival commercial hybrids without excessive fertilization. The microbes associated with our hybrids help fix nitrogen, protect plants, and increase valuable minerals, proteins, and carotenoids in the grain.

We’re committed to an open-source seed model that enables global cooperation in breeding sustainable crops. This approach fosters partnerships, bypasses corporate control, and supports a creative exchange among farmers and gardeners who can retain and share seeds.

As you explore our website, consider joining our subscription program to support this work and access seeds to try in your own fields. By working together, we can redefine the relationship between maize and humanity, making a lasting impact on the planet and future generations. Ready to join us?