EMFS works closely with federal, state, and regional partners to ensure that food and farm businesses receive the services they need. Below are some helpful regional resources that may be useful to you as you explore expansion of your farm or food business.

NC Department of Agriculture
NCDA has assistance for small farms, permitting, certifications, agritourism, trout and fish production, and other programs. 

NC Cooperative Extension: Western Region
NC Cooperative Extension provides production and technical assistance to farmers and producers, some value-added producers, and community food efforts. 

USDA Farm Service Agency
USDA FSA offers information about farm ID numbers, crop insurance, loan programs, and other resources. 

Haywood Community College Small Business Center
HCC SBC serves Haywood County businesses with marketing, technical assistance, business planning, loan access, and other services. 

Tri-County Community College Small Business Center
TCCC SBC serves Cherokee, Clay, and Graham County businesses with marketing, technical assistance, business planning, loan access, and other services. 

Southwestern Community College Small Business Center
SCC SBC serves Jackson, Macon and Swain County businesses with marketing, technical assistance, business planning, loan access, and other services.

Got To Be NC Agriculture
From starting a food business to nutritional resources, Got To Be NC is here to help members of our agricultural community and other professionals find the resources they need to enhance the quality and viability of the state’s agricultural industry.