The Economics Institute (EI) is a nonprofit organization working to promote ecologically sound economic development for individuals, families and small businesses in the food and agriculture sector of the Greater New Orleans region. Fully integrated into the operations of Loyola University, the Economics Institute also functions as an independent, non-profit organization with its own governing board of stakeholders (farmers, chefs, consumers, business and community leaders). In the operational track, operates and supports the Crescent City Farmers Market. In the conceptual track, the EI shapes public policy and offers technical assistance to create new commercial infrastructures that link small-scale producers and consumers.