Empowering Mississippi's Food Entrepreneurs: MSU Extension's Comprehensive Training Program
In a strategic move to support the growth of Mississippi's food-based businesses, the Mississippi State University (MSU) Extension Service is offering a comprehensive training program designed to equip entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to scale up their operations and navigate diverse markets. This initiative, titled "Food as Business: Scaling up from the Market – Take Your Food Business to the Next Level," is set to provide a series of webinars and a one-day, in-person workshop, catering to a wide range of food-based entrepreneurs, including agricultural and food entrepreneurs, farmers, and cottage food operators.
Unlocking the Potential of Mississippi's Food Entrepreneurs
Webinar Series: Navigating the Complexities of Scaling Up
The webinar series, scheduled for 11 a.m. each Thursday in September and October, aims to provide valuable resources and address key issues facing agriculture and food entrepreneurs. These interactive sessions will cover a range of topics, from unlocking farm financing and navigating regulatory requirements to leveraging innovative digital marketing tools and exploring diverse market outlets.
One-Day Workshop: Comprehensive Training for Scaling Up
In addition to the webinar series, MSU Extension is offering a one-day, in-person workshop that delves deeper into the practical aspects of scaling up a food business. Priced at , the workshop includes lunch, refreshments, and comprehensive course materials. Participants will have the opportunity to attend the workshop on either October 11 at MSU's Bost Conference Center or November 6 at the North Mississippi Research and Extension Center in Verona.
Empowering Entrepreneurs with Valuable Insights
The workshop's curriculum covers a wide range of topics crucial for food entrepreneurs looking to expand their operations. Attendees will learn about financial planning, credit readiness and access, marketing strategies, social media advertising, digital marketing, market access, pricing strategies, and compliance with food safety regulations, certification, and production licenses.
Collaborative Approach to Business Growth
The program also emphasizes the importance of collaboration, with a session dedicated to "Growing Together: Collaborating with local organizations and government for farm and food business expansion." This module will provide insights into leveraging local resources and partnerships to drive business growth and access new markets.
Harnessing the Power of Technology
In recognition of the digital age, the training program includes sessions on "Leveraging Canva-Graphic design software for effective digital marketing" and "Harnessing innovative AI tools for effective social media marketing." These sessions aim to equip participants with the necessary skills and tools to effectively promote their products and reach a wider audience through digital channels.
Navigating the Regulatory Landscape
Scaling up a food business often requires navigating a complex regulatory environment. The program addresses this challenge with a session on "Scaling Up Production: Deciphering regulatory, labeling and food safety requirements to sell in new markets." This module will provide guidance on compliance and ensure that participants are well-informed about the necessary steps to expand their operations.
Accessing Financial Resources
Access to capital is a critical component of business growth, and the program recognizes this by dedicating a session to "Unlocking Farm Financing: Navigating loans, credit readiness and U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency loan programs." This module will equip participants with the knowledge and resources they need to secure the necessary funding to scale up their operations.
From Farm to Market: Exploring Diverse Outlets
The final webinar in the series, "From Farm to Market: Navigating market outlets, opportunities and considerations," will provide a comprehensive overview of the various market channels available to food entrepreneurs. This session will help participants identify the most suitable outlets for their products and navigate the complexities of reaching new markets.
