By Andi Anderson
Alex Van Alstyne has joined Iowa State University Extension and Outreach as a food business extension specialist with the Farm, Food and Enterprise Development (FFED) team. With experience ranging from restaurant ownership to trucking, Van Alstyne brings a wide skill set to his new role, helping local food businesses grow and thrive in Iowa.
Van Alstyne’s career includes roles as an R&D lab developer, equipment salesperson, consultant, agricultural mechanic, and more. His knowledge of multiple industries gives him a unique perspective on the needs of food entrepreneurs.
Christa Hartsook, FFED program manager, welcomed Van Alstyne, saying, “His experience brings great perspective to entrepreneurs facing similar challenges.”
Now focused on market feasibility, Van Alstyne studies how markets react to shifting populations, business trends, and product demands. His work supports food producers in developing strategies that match market conditions.
He and his team offer both in-person and online training on a variety of topics. Upcoming areas of support will include:
- Understanding labeling requirements for market and retail sales
- Starting and scaling food businesses
- Using shared spaces for packaging and logistics
- Creating value-added products to expand market reach
Van Alstyne believes in a team-driven approach and often collaborates with industry experts, academics, and other FFED team members to find the right resources. “We’ve got a great group. I strongly believe in working as a team to find the resources or answers needed,” he said.
His goal is to help position Iowa as a leading food state by strengthening regional food systems and making it easier for local food businesses to succeed.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Rural Lifestyle