Alan Lewis navigates government affairs and food and agriculture policy for Natural Grocers, a Colorado based health food chain founded in 1955 with over 150 stores in 20 states.  At the federal, state and local level, Alan engages on food, agriculture, nutrition, rural economic development, blockchain, trade and health issues. Alan is active in several trade and advocacy organizations and has been a speaker and panelist at many events, including a talk at TEDx Boulder in 2014. Long a student of political activism, his focus is on communicating with stakeholders using frameworks that are non-confrontational and inclusive. Alan has lived oversees for extended periods, which lends to his understanding agriculture in varying social and political contexts. He oversees organic certification and compliance for Natural Grocers while advising dozens of food, natural product, and ag-tech start-ups across the country as part of his effort to reinvigorate regional food systems, rural economies, and local supply chains. Highlights of current commitments include the Non-GMO Project board, Organic and Natural Health Association board, Real Organic Project standards board, Retail Advisory Committee of the American Grassfed Association, and various committees of the Council for Responsible Nutrition.