With the Kentucky Local Food Systems Summit starting tomorrow (you can still register here!), we wanted to spotlight KCARD’s Kentucky Local Food System Expansion Initiative. Launched in 2020, the initiative works collaboratively with partners to assist Kentucky local food farmers and buyers in sales and sourcing of local food.  Below are some common questions about the Initiative.

Are you a Kentucky local food producer/farmer?

We can help pair you with appropriate buyers for your products. KCARD will only recommend sales channels that align with your farm business goals.  If you need assistance determining what channels are best for your business, a KCARD Business Development Specialist can assist by reviewing your business financials with you.

Do you buy local food?

Olivia Vogel, KCARD’s Local Food Project Coordinator, can assist you in the sourcing process by having a one-on-one call or meeting to determine specific needs and pair you with Kentucky producers that will meet your requirements.

Is there funding for local food businesses?

If you are a local food producer and have at least $1,000 in farm income the previous two years, chances are we can help.  Multiple programs exist to help local food producers expand their business, but figuring out which program works for your needs can be a challenge.  Fortunately, KCARD runs a Grant Facilitation Program to help you figure out what loans or grants are a good fit for your business.    

How much does it cost to work with KCARD on this Local Food Expansion Initiative?

Due to the support KCARD receives from the USDA and the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board, it is able to provide all of the services mentioned at no cost to Kentucky farmers and local food buyers. 

Are you concerned about food safety regulations?

Kentucky has great resources to help you navigate food safety requirements. Whether you are just starting out, or considering expansion, we can connect you with the right people.

Can KCARD help my farm grow direct-to-consumer sales?

KCARD has worked with several businesses whose target markets include CSA’s, on-farm markets, farmers markets, local pickup, online sales, and more. While these market channels are not the main focus of the Kentucky Local Food System Expansion Initiative, our Business Development staff can offer strategies for increasing your sales. 

Check out these past blog posts from KCARD that are related to local foods:

Direct to Consumer Meat Business Resources

Direct to Consumer Beef Webinar Series

Q&A with Olivia: Local Food, Increasing Your Markets

Direct Marketing Sheep & Goat Webinar Series

Our YouTube channel is where we house all KCARD webinars, including two we did last year to help producers interested in selling meat:

Direct Marketing Sheep & Goat Webinar Series

Direct-to-Consumer Beef Webinar Series

Are you interested in learning more about the Local Food System Expansion Initiative, our business development work, or the grant facilitation program? Reach out to Haleigh Young at hyoung@kcard.info or 859-550-3972 or reach Olivia Vogel at ovogel@kcard.info or (859) 813-0658.