By Andi Anderson
The Small Farm Sustainability team with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is offering a unique opportunity for small food processing businesses to enhance their business planning skills.
The 12-session program, organized by Penny Brown Huber, a food business specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, begins in November and aims to help home food-based or small commercial food processing companies that sell into retail markets.
“Participants will work on their business plan and business acumen,” said Brown Huber. “They will get a better sense of where they want to go and hear from experts and business leaders who can help address their concerns.”
The program is designed to cater to up to 12 businesses, with a registration deadline of October 19. Most sessions will be held in person at the Iowa State campus in Ames, with one Zoom session and one visit to each business. The exact locations for in-person sessions will be determined based on the locations of registered participants.
The sessions are scheduled as follows:
Nov. 2, 2024: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Nov. 9, 2024: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Nov. 16, 2024: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Dec. 7, 2024: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Jan. 11, 2025: 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Zoom
Jan. 18, 2025: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Jan. 25, 2025: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Feb. 1, 2025: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Feb. 8, 2025: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
Feb. 15, 2025: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in person
April – September 2025: Business visits with project support
Oct. 11, 2025: Final business presentation: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
At the final session, participants will present their business plans to the group, followed by discussion. “The program allows them to grow their business plan, plus their confidence and clarity as business owners,” said Brown Huber. “It’s a journey, but so much growth happens along the way.”
Enrollment is $399 per business, covering all participants involved with the same business. The cost is reduced thanks to support from the Heartland Regional Food Business Center.
Participants who complete their business plan can apply for a Business Building Grant valued at up to $50,000.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education