Small Scale Food Processor Association Launches Funded Program To Refresh Local Food Businesses
VICTORIA – The Small Scale Food Processor Association (SSFPA) has launched Food Business Refresh, a funded program to rejuvenate micro to small-scale BC food processors who have been affected by COVID-19.
This initiative is unique from other business support programs in that participants will receive guided, hands-on support, tailored to their company’s situation and objectives. If accepted into the Refresh program, these business owners will be given free customized training and coaching, and funded support for implementation.
“Instead of just receiving funding,” says Pamela Baxter, SSFPA president, “this is a rare opportunity for businesses to receive customized one-on-one expert help to shift their operations to new market channels.”
Throughout the Refresh program, knowledgeable food industry experts collaborate to guide participants through a three-phase process to position them for success in the long term.
Phase 1 – Assess needs and pivot options – a 3-week workshop series with other participants, facilitated by industry specialists.
Phase 2 – Create a plan – together with a coach/project manager, participants receive individual support to establish a plan and practical direction on how to implement it.
Phase 3 – Implement – with support from technical experts, participants can receive funding for services like laboratory services, packaging companies, and marketing agencies to facilitate implementation.
SSFPA executive director, Candice Appleby explains, “The focus on implementation in the Refresh program is the key to ensuring a higher success rate as these businesses create new opportunities.”
BC based micro to small food processing businesses can apply if they have been affected by the pandemic market disruption. They must be established by or before 2019 and have annual sales greater than $30,000. There are limited spaces in the program.
With many technical and people resources required to set up and execute this initiative, agri-food marketing and planning agency, Farm Food Drink Inc., is managing the coordination and delivery of the Refresh program.
“We’re excited to support this SSFPA opportunity,” says Greg McLaren, Farm Food Drink managing director. “It’s important to get these businesses thriving again and contributing to their local food economies.”
Food Business Refresh is already underway, but is accepting applications until November 9th, 2020.
Businesses can apply at the program website: https://www.foodbusinessrefresh.ca/
