MSU Extension Gratiot County

Business Planning

Diane Smith, MSU Product Center Innovation Counselor - Diane assesses the developmental phase of food and Agri business, guides businesses from concept to launch, identifies markets, innovates new products and helps businesses make critical go/no-go decisions. For businesses that have already developed their concept, Diane can help them create a business plan to effectively communicate with bankers, investors and customers. The MSU Product Center can also connect businesses with experts within or outside Michigan State University for advanced marketing or feasibility studies, assistance with nutritional facts labeling or processing to meet Federal Food and Drug Administration requirements. Businesses can start working with Diane or the MSU Product Center by completing a Request for Counseling at http://www.canr.msu.edu/productcenter/ or emailing them at product@msu.edu. Contact Diane at 517-526-7895 or dismith@msu.edu.

Citizen Planner is an in-depth workshop designed to help individuals understand planning and zoning better and be more effective as a board member or as an active citizen. Sessions are taking place around the state on an ongoing basis. Contact David Rowley, Extension Educator, Government & Public Policy at rowleyd2@msu.edu for the current  program schedule.