In this issue:

Virtual Field Trip

Farm Business Consulting

Remote PSA Grower Training

Starting a Food Business Webinar
Virtual Farm Field Trip

October 28, 2020
1:30 pm

The Arkansas Department of Agriculture and Heifer USA are hosting a virtual farm field trip and all are invited. We will tour the certified organic production gardens, hear expert advice on gardening best practices, and celebrate local successes from across the state. Attendees will be able to ask questions and interact throughout the LIVE event. In case of rain, the virtual event will be hosted on October 29, 2020, at 1:30pm CST.
Free Farm Business Consulting

Elizabeth Young is a specialized small business and agriculture consultant with the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center. Young assists farmers, food producers, and small businesses across Arkansas. Young can help with a variety of topics including 1) proper business incorporation; 2) financial projections, tracking tools, calculating profit margins; 3) market, restaurant, wholesale, and online sales; 4) business plan development; 5) branding and marketing challenges; and 6) state health regulations, 7) overall business management, and other topics.

As a farmer, small business owner, and past farmers market manager, Young is passionate about growing small businesses and strengthening local food systems to improve Arkansas’ economy. To work with Young, reach out to her by email at Elizabeth.young@asbtdc.org or by phone at (870) 918-1740.
Navigating Local Food Sales Opportunities for Producers

October 27, 2020 | 10-11:30 am

Join Elizabeth Young for the upcoming webinar!

Arkansas producers are learning to endure through rapidly changing times as physical markets change, grocery and restaurant demand fluctuates, local demand grows, and sales can be hard to project/forecast. Join us for this online workshop covering how to market your farm and value-added products as marketing avenues and the food industry continue to transform during the pandemic. Learn about online eCommerce options, diversifying sales outlets, changes and buying trends at local farmer’s markets, and how to prepare for 2021. 
Only 2 more Produce Safety Grower Training opportunities this year!👨🏽‍🌾👩🏽‍🌾
Registration for the November training closes Monday, November 2nd!! Sign up now!!


🍂Remote PSA Grower Training Schedule: Fall/Winter 2020 ❄


Each training will be split into two days and will take place from 8:00 am to
12:30 pm both days. Each training will be conducted live through Zoom.
Who should attend:
Anyone who grows, harvests, packs and handles fresh fruits and vegetables. Registration is limited to 20 participants. Sign up soon to reserve your spot.
Why you should attend:
On-farm food safety practices are vital in the produce industry. Many farms are now required to comply with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule. This training will educate growers on the Produce Safety Rule. Upon completion of this training, participants receive a certificate satisfying the requirement 112.22(c) in the Produce Safety Rule.
What is required to receive a certificate:
You must attend both days of the training. Additionally, you must have the following:
  • Internet access
  • Zoom Video Conferencing software*
  • Web camera
  • Microphone
When is the registration deadline:
Registration closes at 11:59 pm on the following days:
  • November training closes on November 2nd
  • December training closes on November 24th
Training materials will be mailed to your residence. Registration closes seven days before the training to accommodate ordering materials and mailing them to you.
*Once you receive the registration link, you will be prompted to download the free Zoom software. You do not have to create an account to participate.

**Participant attendance and engagement will be monitored. Participants are only eligible for a PSA/AFDO Certificate of Course Completion if they are present for all modules of the course**
Starting a Small Food Business in Arkansas: Cottage Food

Recording Available!

Since 2011, the Arkansas Cottage Food Law has allowed residents to sell certain non-hazardous food items direct to the public. These “cottage foods” are specific types of food made in home kitchens, however, not all foods can be made at home and sold to the public. Food entrepreneurs and home-based food businesses can learn more about cottage foods in this webinar, co-hosted with Family & Consumer Sciences.
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