Madison Farms was created as a collaboration between Madison County farmers and Cooperative Extension in 2006 in response to the aftermath of the 2005 Tobacco Buyout. Madison Farms was founded as a resource for farmers who were transitioning from tobacco to a wide variety of crops. During peak season, hospitals, grocery stores, restaurants, and colleges buy the high-quality produce and meats that are raised by Madison County farmers and packaged and processed at the Madison Farms Value-Added Center. As well, area school systems purchase Madison Farms goods through a well-established Farm-to-School program. In the off-season, farmers have access to a licensed kitchen where they transform their products into shelf-stable goods to sell year round. Together, Madison Farms and Madison County farmers are working to preserve family farms and promote a local economy.