Growing for Kane: Sam the Sweetcorn Man Keeps the Season Going with a Variety of Vegetables and Legumes
Kane County Connects is spotlighting local farms that received grants through Kane County's 2024 Food and Farm Resiliency Program. Funded by the federal American Rescue Plan, the program supports farmers as they continue to recover from pandemic-related challenges and work to strengthen the region's food system. 
Meet the Farmer
Known locally as Sam the Sweetcorn Man, Tim Slepicka has built a reputation in Kane County for growing food people recognize, rely on, and return for year after year. While sweet corn may be what first draws customers in, his farm has steadily grown into a diversified operation serving families, restaurants, and grocery stores across the region.
Farmers like Tim must be adaptable, lifelong learners. “Every day and certainly every year is a new adventure," Tim shared. That flexibility has become one of the defining features of his operation.
In recent years, Tim has expanded production beyond sweet corn to include crops that reflect the food traditions of a large portion of his customer base. His farm specializes in produce and legumes for the Hispanic market, supplying the freshest peppers, squash, and beans that are central to many households and kitchens.
“Although we obviously serve all comers, a large portion of our client base, whether they be restaurants, grocery stores, or individuals, are Spanish speakers," Tim explained. “That shows up in the kinds of vegetables and legumes people are looking for."
The Food and Farm Resiliency Grant
The Kane County Food & Farm Resiliency Grant played a critical role in keeping the farm operating in 2025, particularly during key decision points in the growing season.
“The grant really was a life-saver for us this year," Tim said. “At critical points, it literally made our operation more resilient and sustainable."
Grant reimbursements supported multiple aspects of production. In February, the farm purchased 2,300 pounds of pinto bean seed, an expense reimbursed through the program. After harvesting the crop later in the season, Tim began bagging the beans using a bag-filling machine that he hopes will also be reimbursed through the grant. 
The finished product will feed Kane County and beyond. Tim has delivered bagged pinto beans to the Northern Illinois Food Bank, extending the impact of the grant beyond his own operation.
How the Farm Operates
Sustainability at Sam the Sweetcorn Man shows up in practical, everyday decisions. The farm works to reduce food miles by selling locally, practices conservation tillage, and manages land in ways that support soil health and provide habitat for wildlife.
Operating on the edge of Chicago's western suburbs, the farm is closely tied to the local economy. Selling directly to nearby customers and businesses helps keep farmland in production and preserves green space in a rapidly developing region.
Quality is central to the farm's reputation and daily work. Produce is grown, harvested, and handled with care, with the belief that customers recognize quality when they see it, smell it, and taste it. Meeting that expectation is part of what keeps customers coming back season after season.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
Looking ahead over the next three to five years, Tim's priority is diversifying the farm.
“The main thing that would help our farm is a year-round income," he said. “We've made some progress with that by adding value-added products such as dry beans and dried, packaged chiles."
Expanding into new markets is part of that effort, along with continuing to diversify how and when products are sold. Additional equipment, particularly grain handling and processing machinery, would also help support off-season activity and efficiency.
“At this point, I'm just very thankful for the grant," Tim added. “It made a tremendous difference."
Where to Find Sam the Sweetcorn Man's Products
Farmstand Coming Spring 2026!
Stay informed and purchase online at samthesweetcornman.com
Products Sold Locally at:
- La Huerta Supermarket, St. Charles
- Tampico Super Market, West Chicago
- Dekalb Fresh Market, Dekalb
The Growing for Kane series was created by Sustainable Agriculture Consultant Ellen Kamps.
