Success Stories

The IssueIn 2019, Alejandro started working on a project, Salazar Organic Farms, growing vegetables such as bok choy and radishes on 7.5 acres. Having no previous knowledge on running a farming business, the growth of Salazar Organic Farms was further stifled by the pandemic in 2020 and the difficulties of…

San Diego Food System Alliance Launches Curated and Vetted Digital Resource Libraries for Small Producers and Food Business Owners The IssueSmall-scale farmers, fisher folk, and food business owners in San Diego County often lack access to accurate, up-to-date, and actionable information to navigate the…

University of Nevada, Reno Extension Supports Small Business in Complexities of Starting Food Systems Business BackgroundJason is the owner of Ragnarök Fireside Grill, a bold and flavorful food truck business based in North Las Vegas, Nevada. Specializing in fire-kissed meats and Viking-inspired BBQ…

Larta Institute’s Urban Agriculture Task Force Advocates for Urban Farmers in Los Angeles Region The Issue  As part of the technical assistance plan with the Southwest Regional Food Business Center (SWRFBC) the Larta Institute’s (Larta) Urban Agriculture Task Force (Task Force) was formed. The…

Center for Good Food Purchasing Supports Resident Coalitions in Los Angeles and the Bay AreaThe IssueThere are many initiatives across California to increase the demand for locally grown and raised food, particularly the demand of anchor institutions like hospital systems, city agencies, school districts,…

Local First Arizona Develops Community Kitchens with Local Food Procurement  The IssueLow-income neighborhoods throughout Phoenix, Arizona, have difficulty accessing healthy, affordable, and locally-sourced food. This is a critical issue, particularly in areas considered food deserts. Entrepreneurs…

BackgroundTed Christoph is the owner of Liberty Jersey Dairy in Churchill County, Nevada. He recently became the third-generation owner of the family dairy after completing the purchase of the business from his parents. Looking to expand and diversify operations, Ted sought technical assistance from the…

Diaspora Groceries Building Markets, Building ConfidenceHow Diaspora Groceries’ Technical Assistance Track is Cultivating New Food Entrepreneurs The IssueMany small-scale food entrepreneurs and producers face significant barriers when entering formal markets. From limited access to capital to confusion…

The IssueNorthern Arizona is a largely rural and tribal region with high rates of food insecurity and poverty. Children are particularly impacted with over 40 percent of children suffering food insecurity in rural northern counties such as Apache County. Many counties in Northern Arizona are considered food…

Diaspora Groceries Paving Pathways for Urban Farmers, Producers, and Residents Across Los Angeles County What is the need?Access to resources and technical assistance for food entrepreneurs remains a significant barrier to achieving increased economic viability. Many small business owners struggle to…