MSU Extension seeks experts for video on starting a food business

Running a food business may be a profitable venture for Montana’s farmers and entrepreneurs, but getting started can be a challenge. To help, the Montana State University Extension Service is producing a video that will aid Montanans in tapping into "value added agriculture" food markets.

By MSU News Service

The video will provide information on starting a food-related business; key agencies that serve budding entrepreneurs and strategies for collaboration; tips for ensuring a safe final product; and ideas for incorporating economic and community development within Montana’s food systems.

To complete the video, MSU Extension needs the help of various professionals: Montana food producers, farmers, regulators, business experts, agriculture specialists, Extension agents and other experts who can offer a broad range of knowledge and experience. Travel is not necessary, and participants will receive a complimentary copy of the publication "Basics of Marketing for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs" from the MSU Extension Service.

Topics to be covered in the video include:

–Getting started in the food business

–Developing a business plan and marketing strategy

–Determining the feasibility of your project

–Product development–quality control and food safety

–Labeling requirements and assistance

–Packaging and co-packing

–State and federal regulations

–Contact information for state and federal agencies and other Montana resources

"Although Montanans have always been known for their gutsy pioneer spirit, any time you start a business of your own it’s always scary," said entrepreneur Renita Thomas of Renita’s Specialty Sauces in Black Eagle. "I believe this video is a huge step in ridding Montanans of some of the fear involved in starting their own food businesses. It’s also a great resource."

The video is scheduled to be available to the public in March 2003. Those who would like to participate in the project should contact the producers by Dec. 15, 2002:

Lynn Paul, EdD, RD, MSU Extension Food and Nutrition Specialist, 101 Romney Hall, Bozeman, MT 59717, (406) 994-5702, [email protected]

Bruce Smith, Dawson County Extension agent, 207 West Bell St., Glendive, MT 59330, (406) 377-4277, [email protected]

Molly Stenberg, RD, MSU Extension project coordinator, 101 Romney Hall, Bozeman, MT 59717, (406) 994-7546, [email protected]

Lynn Paul, 994-5702; Molly Stenberg, 994-7546

http://www.montana.edu/commserv/csnews/nwview.php?article=612