Resources

Scale of Production Matrix

Published on January 29, 2018
This part of the Toolbox for Vegetable Farm Viability provides a detailed look at potential infrastructure and equipment investments for different size small farms to help in planning and growth.
Curtis Ogden: Building Capacity Through Networks

Published on January 22, 2018
Video recording of Curtis Ogden, speaking at November 29, 2017 convening of statewide leaders of food and health associations and local food councils on the importance of networks.
Have You Tried Weekly Retail Replenishment?: A Guide for Small Meat Plants

Published on January 19, 2018
This resource focuses on improving profitability in small and very small meat plants by managing retail inventory more effectively.
Ypsilanti Area Food Access Survey 2016

Published on January 9, 2018
This data brief reports out key findings from a 2016 survey in Ypsilanti on community members’ access to food. Findings will help inform strategies to improve food security and access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
Regional Supply Chains and the Food Economy of Malawi

Published on January 8, 2018
This brief begins to systematically examine the regional supply chain in Lilongwe, Malawi. The regional food sector is critical to rural and urban food security.
10 Cents a Meal Pilot: 2016-2017 Evaluation Results

Published on December 21, 2017
These reports summarize the results of the 2016-2017 pilot of 10 Cents a Meal for School Kids and Farms, a project that provides up to 10 cents per meal in match funding for participating schools to purchase and serve Michigan-grown products.
Analysis of Healthy Food Incentive Programs' Impact on Farmers Market Vendors in Michigan

Published on December 4, 2017
This study explores the influences of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) incentives like Double Up on local food market activity. It examines how the DUFB program in Michigan has impacted Michigan farmers and vendors.
Why is Land Access Critical? Bridging the Gap Between Food, Health and Land

Published on November 21, 2017
A brief explanation aiming to bring clarity and awareness around the disconnection between health and access to farmland.
Beginning Farmers: Finding the Money You Need

Published on November 3, 2017
This guide is meant to provide a road map to loan readiness and conventional and alternative credit access for beginning farmers. Access to financial capital is one of the largest obstacles for beginning farmers.
Beginning Farmers: 10 Steps to Loan Readiness

Published on October 30, 2017
At some point, most farmers need to make some changes and grow to sustain their business. Based on his lending work with hundreds of Michigan farmers, Mike Jordon developed the 10 steps contained in this guide to aid the growth of farming operations.
Taking Root: Hoophouses for Health & MI Farm to School Infographic

Published on October 9, 2017
Learn how Hoophouses for Health helps Michigan children and families have better access to good food while supporting Michigan farmers and increasing season extension food production.
Tools For Assessing Economic Impact: A Primer For Food System Practitioners Webinar

Published on October 4, 2017
This webinar provides an overview of different tools that food systems practitioners can use to assess economic growth, including both standard commercial models and alternative, community-based approaches.
Beginning Farmers: Crowdfunding for Small Farmers

Published on October 2, 2017
Crowdfunding is becoming more popular for small and beginning farmers. This guide aims to address how small and beginning farmers can use crowdfunding as a fundraising tool.
2015 National Food Hub Survey Questions

Published on September 20, 2017
The 2015 National Food Hub Survey was opened for response to food hub managers, the information and questions provided in the survey are listed in this report.
Farmers Markets as Engines of Economic Activity: Power in Numbers

Published on September 14, 2017
As we approach the end of peak season in Michigan, this webinar celebrates the many ways farmers markets contribute to community economic development across the state.
Deciding to Process Beef, Hogs, or Deer in Small Meat Plants

Published on August 9, 2017
This brief presents simple principles to aid small meat plants in deciding whether and when to process one species over another.
A Case for Daily Slaughter in Small Meat Plants

Published on August 9, 2017
This brief discusses the merits of daily slaughter to aid small meat plants into increased sales and profitability.
Developing Large-Scale Sustainable Local Egg Markets

Published on August 9, 2017
This brief explores a possible method to help local egg growers develop large-scale markets.
Beyond the Numbers, Food Business Decision Making Series: Buying or Leasing a Food Hub Truck

Published on August 9, 2017
This guide presents the pros and cons of a food hub buying or leasing a truck for distribution.
Economics of Healthy Food Incentives at Michigan Farmers Markets: Study Highlights

Published on August 8, 2017
This brief introduces findings and next steps from a study evaluating the economic influences of Double Up Food Bucks on Michigan farmers and farmers markets.