EMFS: Value Added
The EmPOWERing Mountain Food Systems (EMFS) project provides assistance and funding to food and farming businesses by way of cost-share, low-interest loans; direct grants; free business counseling services; the apprenticeship program; and support for value added food production. Here you can find out more about our support for value added food production.
Up to $3,000 in product development support and consulting fees
Value-added product development
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After an initial intake conversation with your SBC, a referral will be made to our partner the Center for Agricultural and Food Entrepreneurship (CAFE) for businesses that focus on value added products like jams, jerky, granola or baked goods. | Support will be provided by the Center for Agricultural and Food Entrepreneurship (CAFE) by the EMFS program, at no charge to the business. CAFE can guide product development, including recipe development, ingredient sourcing, regulatory requirements, marketing and production at Blue Ridge Food Ventures. | After CAFE provides consultation and technical assistance, participants can apply for cost-share support for continued product development and marketing up to $3,000 per participant. |