<p>Urban farming plays a critical role in addressing food insecurity, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment, particularly in underserved urban areas. However, for urban agriculture initiatives to achieve lasting impact and sustainability, they must be supported by research-practice partnerships (RPPs) that foster mutual benefit between researchers and urban farms. This perspective piece argues that RPPs can provide a structured framework for long-term collaboration, enabling urban farms to access valuable research-driven insights while offering researchers rich, community-based knowledge. By engaging in long-term partnerships, urban farms gain access to resources, policy advocacy, and evidence-based practices that enhance their operational effectiveness, while researchers benefit from practical, real-world data that enhances their studies and relevance. These partnerships are essential for overcoming structural barriers like gentrification, racial inequities, and environmental degradation that often hinder the sustainability of urban agriculture efforts. The article examines the potential for RPPs to empower urban farms, strengthen food sovereignty, and promote social justice by ensuring that research agendas are aligned with the needs and goals of the communities served. Additionally, the integration of participatory research methods and data science within RPPs offers innovative opportunities for urban farms to advance their mission and contribute to the broader field of food systems research. Ultimately, this piece emphasizes that RPPs are not only crucial for the long-term success of urban farming but also for ensuring these initiatives are mutually beneficial, equitable, and sustainable.</p>