Heartland Regional Food Business Coalition

Latino Small Business Conferences
2024-10-05 08:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Hotel 21 & Co., 2605 North 10th Street, Gering, NE, 96341, United States
REGISTRATION IS OPEN! LATINO SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE 2024 – FREE AND IN SPANISH
A fantastic opportunity for Latino entrepreneurs and small business owners to connect, learn, and grow! Choose the location and date that suits you best. There’s no excuse to miss this conference. Presentations on business topics, education, and connections with experts, professionals, suppliers, and vendors from various fields. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in this event! For more details on registration, session topics, or the event, please feel free to ask or visit our website.
We look forward to seeing you there and helping you take your business to the next level!
Please choose which location you will attend from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm:

Grand Island – August 10, 2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001PCmz
Omaha – August 17, 2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001eGbl
Lincoln – August 24, 2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001eGez
Scottsbluff – October 5, 2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001eGgb

¡REGISTRACIÓN ABIERTA! LATINO SMALL BUSINESS CONFERENCE 2024 -GRATIS Y EN ESPANOL
¡Una oportunidad fantástica para que los emprendedores y dueños de pequeños negocios latinos se conecten, aprendan y crezcan!
Elija la locación que mas le convenga y/o la fecha. No hay excusa para perderse esta conferencia. Presentaciones sobre temas de negocios, educación y conexión con expertos, profesionales, proveedores y vendedores de diversos campos
¡No pierdas la oportunidad de participar en este evento!
Para más detalles sobre la registración, temas de las sesiones, o sobre el evento, por favor, no dude en preguntar o visitar nuestro sitio web.
¡Esperamos verte allí y ayudarte a llevar tu negocio al siguiente nivel!
Por favor escoja a qué lugar va a asistir de 8:00 am a 2:00pm:

Grand Island AGOSTO 10/2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001PCmz
Omaha AGOSTO 17/2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001eGbl
Lincoln AGOSTO 24 /2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001eGez
Scottsbluff OCTUBRE 5/2024 https://score.tfaforms.net/112?EventID=a10Vt000001eGgb

HACCP Workshop
2024-10-07 08:00 - 2024-10-09 17:00 | Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
When: October 7 & 9, 2024 (2.5 days)
Where: Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, Missouri 65201
Format: In person
The National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods (NACMCF), USDA, and FDA highly recommend implementing an HACCP plan in a food processing plant to ensure food safety from harvest to consumption.
Dr. Lakshmikantha ‘Kantha’ Channaiah, state extension specialist in food processing and an assistant professor in the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) will lead the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) training.
This in-person course helps food professionals learn the latest food safety issues that affect their products as well as how to develop an effective HACCP plan.
Registration cost: $500.
This event is limited to 30 participants.
An early bird discount of $50 for registrants who register before September 30, 2024.
Registration link: https://extension.missouri.edu/events/haccp-workshop-0
Channaiah is a leading food safety expert with more than 20 years of experience in teaching, training, and research. The course is accredited by the International HACCP Alliance.
Lunch will be provided on Oct 8 and 9, 2024.
A certificate with the International HACCP Alliance seal will be presented to participants at the end of the course.
Partners:
Dept. Food Science, MAFFIC and MU Extension.

Latina Women's Business Conference: Creating a Legacy (Only in Spanish)
2024-10-08 09:00 - 15:00 | Fremont City Auditorium, 925 N Broad St, Fremont, NE, 68025, United States
Session: Join us for a unique event in Spanish that brings together women leaders, companies and professionals from various sectors. This meeting aims to empower you with tools and resources to build and strengthen your professional and personal path. Through inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops and networking opportunities, you’ll have the chance to learn from industry experts, share experiences and make valuable connections.
We invite everyone, men and women, to join us in celebrating the talent and tenacity of Latinas as we build a legacy of success and leadership together.
For additional information: https://secure.everyaction.com/TXSZvrSod0KP1vdS_IrGIA2
Date: Tuesday, October 8, 2024 from 9 am to 3 pm Registration opens at 8 am
Cost: Pre-registration is $35 before October 7 and $40 at the door on the day of the event. This includes lunch.
Location: Fremont City Auditorium, 925 N Broad St, Fremont, NE 68025
Register by October 7th. To register, click here .
Questions: Brissa Borjas Esparza at 402.870.2749 or brissabe@cfra.org
Sponsored by: Centre for Rural Affairs
Translation:
Sesión: Únase a nosotros para un evento único en español que reúne a mujeres líderes, empresas y profesionales de diversos sectores.
Este encuentro tiene como objetivo empoderarle con herramientas y recursos para construir y fortalecer su camino profesional y personal.
A través de discursos inspiradores, talleres interactivos y oportunidades para establecer contactos, tendrás la oportunidad de aprender de expertos del sector, compartir experiencias y establecer conexiones valiosas.
Invitamos a todos, hombres y mujeres, a unirse a nosotros para celebrar el talento y la tenacidad de las mujeres latinas mientras creamos juntos un legado de éxito y liderazgo.
Fecha: Martes, 8 de octubre de 2024 de 9 am a 3 pm La inscripción se abre a las 8 am
Costo: El costo de preinscripción es $35 antes del 7 de octubre y $40 en la puerta el día del evento. Esto incluye el almuerzo.
Lugar: Auditorio de la ciudad de Fremont, 925 N Broad St, Fremont, NE 68025
Inscríbase antes del 7 de octubre. Para inscribirse, Haga clic here.
Preguntas: Brissa Borjas Esparza al 402.870.2749 o brissabe@cfra.org
Patrocinado por: Centro de Asuntos Rurales

FoodTrails: Rhode Island's Pilot Local Food Tracking Software for Schools - Webinar
2024-10-08 14:00 - 15:00
Date & Time
Oct 8, 2024, 02:00 PM in Central Time (US and Canada)

Description
Join the National Farm to School Network for a cutting edge webinar featuring Rhode Island Department of Education Child Nutrition Program leadership, consultants, developers, and a participating food service director as they introduce FoodTrails, an innovative local food purchasing tracking platform designed specifically for schools. The webinar will showcase the history of the platform’s development, a live demonstration of its features, and provide a glimpse into the experience of the first months of the platform’s pilot with four school districts. This is a unique opportunity to explore how automation and technology are being leveraged to improve farm to school procurement tracking in schools and to ask questions directly to the developers and users of the system.
Presenters: – Jessica Patrolia, Rhode Island Department of Education – Max Bernstein, KK&P – Shayna Cohen, KK&P – Neil Klissus, FoodTrails – Jesse Skeets, FoodTrails

Registration Information: Meeting Registration – Zoom

Better Process Control School for Acidified Foods - Online Training
2024-10-10 07:45 - 2024-10-11 12:00
Better Process Control School for Acidified Foods – via Zoom:
About this Course:
The Better Process Control School for Acidified Foods is an FDA-recognized course for operators or manufacturers who produce thermally processed acidified foods. Those passing two exams with a grade of 70% or higher will receive a Certificate of Course Completion to fulfill the training requirements of the FDA Acidified Food regulations. Exams will be open book, multiple choice and will be online. Exams generally require no more than one hour to complete. Homework is required. Topics covered include microbiology of food preservation, formulating acid/acidified food products, containers and closures, record keeping, and FDA process of filing.
This is 2-day training on October 10-11, 2024.
Time: 7:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. each day.
Registration deadline:
September 25, 2024
Cost: $400.00
Information and Registration at:
https://foodsci.k-
state.edu/extension/extension-
events.html
The course is being offered by Kansas State University and University of Missouri. For questions, please contact Kelly Getty, Co-Director of the Kansas Value Added Foods Lab (kgetty@ksu.edu or 785-532-2203.)
Please use URL for flyer and additional information:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hwsAFla-Q9X7r1J_W4zhuxESp9s8DVRL/view

Creating a Strategy on Social Media
2024-10-10 10:00 - 11:00
Are you struggling to make your social media presence stand out? This webinar is designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to create an effective social media strategy. We will go over how to identify your audience, leverage your analytics, choose the right platforms, and create high quality content.
Date: Thursday, October 10th
Time: 10:00 am -11:00am
Cost: $10.00
Location: Online. You will receive information about how to connect.*Registration closes at 12:00 pm on Wednesday, October 9th, 2024.

Price: $10.00
Register: 10/10/24 – Creating a Strategy on Social Media (touchnet.com)

Farmers & Flyers: A Marketing Webinar Series
2024-10-10 18:00 - 20:00
Join us for a FREE online marketing webinar series designed specifically for farmers, ranchers, and growers! Hosted by the Midwest Growers Collaborative and with presenters from Be More Business and The Toolbox KC, “Farmers & Flyers” provides the knowledge you need to establish your brand, promote your products and events, and connect with your customers.
Webinar Topics (Learn More Here!):
July 11: Canva Features, Account Set-Up, Costs, Trademark, Copyright, etc.
August 8: Basics – Logo, Business Card, Banner
September 12: Marketing & Promotions – Social Media, Events, Flyers
October 10: Website & Google MyBusiness – Google MyBusiness, Website Options
Temas del seminario web (Más Información Aquí):
23 de Julio: Características de Canva, configuración de cuenta, costo, marca registrada, derechos de autor, etc.
20 de Agosto: Conceptos básicos: logotipo, tarjeta de presentación, pancarta
24 de Septiembre: Marketing y promociones: redes sociales, eventos, folletos
22 de Octubre: Sitio web y Google MyBusiness – Google MyBusiness, Opciones del sitio web
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your marketing skills and your farm! Register now, and let’s cultivate success together!
You can register for one session or the whole series and take your marketing efforts to the next level. We will email instructions to join the webinar(s) after you register.
For more information and to register, visit one of our websites or contact us at ashley@kcfarmschool.org. Become a KC F.A.R.M.E.R.S. Coalition member at www.kcfarmschool.org/kc-farmers-coalition for FREE updates, more training events, and additional resources.
Register Now!
¡Inscríbase ahora!

Applied Food Safety Microbiology Training
2024-10-17 08:00 - 2024-10-18 12:30 | Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Microbial control programs play a key role in controlling spoilage, toxigenic, and pathogenic microorganisms in a variety of raw and finished food products. Food Drug and Administration (FDA), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) regulations, audit programs, and customer requirements are driving the need for food processors to develop sound microbial control programs that address microbial issues in their products. This course aids food processors in gaining knowledge of the latest microbiological food safety issues that affect their products, as well as developing and implementing effective control programs assuring food safety. Besides implementing an efficient food safety program, this training will enable food processors to explore new markets, particularly a more lucrative and profitable food market beyond the county and state limits. Participants will acquire basic food safety microbiology knowledge and will be able to address common micro issues using an environmental monitoring program and preventive control strategies.
Target audience: small and medium-scale food (fruits, vegetables, canners, & meat) processors, quality assurance and quality control personnel, line supervisors, operators, sanitation supervisors, quality managers, farmers doing business in farmers market, canning professionals, and managers.
Instructor: Kantha Channaiah, a leading food safety expert with over 20 years of experience in teaching, training, and research, will be the main instructor for this course.
A certificate will be presented to participants at the end of the course.
Duration: 1.5 days
Timings: Day 1: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Day 2: 8:00 am to 12:30 pm.
When: October 17 & 18, 2024 (1.5 days)
Where: Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, Missouri 65201
Registration cost: Free for Missourians (Out of state Missourians pay $450)
https://extension.missouri.edu/events/applied-food-safety-microbiology
Partners:
Dept. Food Science, MAFFIC and MU Extension.

Harvest Your Brand: A SKF Marketing Workshop for Growers in Olathe
2024-10-17 10:00 - 15:00 | K-State Olathe Room, 22201 W Innovation Dr, Rm 223B, Olathe, KS, 66061, United States
This half-day engaging and informative workshop is designed specifically for growers who want to elevate their brand and connect more effectively with consumers. Hosted by Shop Kansas Farms, this workshop will provide you with the tools and strategies needed to build a strong brand presence and market your products successfully.
What You’ll Learn

Branding Basics: Understand the fundamentals of creating a memorable and impactful brand.
Perfecting the Pitch: Develop your pitch that will help you broaden your consumer base.
Social Media Savvy: Learn how to leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
Fame at the Farmers Market: Master what it takes to have an engaging and memorable booth at the farmers market.

Who Should Attend
This workshop is ideal for farmers, growers and agricultural entrepreneurs looking to enhance their marketing skills and build a recognizable brand.
Date and Time: Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (lunch is included)
Location: K-State Olathe Room 223B, 22201 W Innovation Dr in Olathe
Registration: Farm Bureau members of Kansas pay $50 and non-members pay $75. If you’re not a Farm Bureau member, you can join at www.kfb.org/join. Register for the workshop here: https://form.jotform.com/kfbforms/FtoC-workshops
Don’t miss this opportunity to harvest the full potential of your brand and take your marketing efforts to the next level. Sign up today and start your journey towards greater recognition and success!

Nebraska Farm to School Summit
2024-10-17 12:00 - 2024-10-18 14:00 | Holiday Inn Kearney, 110 2nd Ave Kearney, Kearney, NE, 68847, United States
The Nebraska Farm to School program enriches the connection communities have with fresh, healthy food and local food producers by changing food purchasing and education practices at schools and early care and education settings.
There are three core elements of Farm to School: Procurement, Education, and School Gardens. Farm to School works to provide resources to promote local Nebraska grown and raised products in the classroom, cafeteria, and community.

Nebraska Farm to School Summit Registration Now Open!
Join us for the Nebraska Farm to School Summit at the Holiday Inn Kearney (110 2nd Ave Kearney, NE 68847) on October 17-18, 2024. The conference will begin at 12:00 PM on Thursday October 17 and conclude at 2 PM on Friday October 18. Registration includes dinner on Thursday and breakfast and lunch on Friday. Register here: http://bit.ly/4bNAfL2
All farm to school stakeholders are welcome! This includes farmers and producers, school food service staff, educators, school administrators, early care and education providers, community members, local agency representatives, non-profits, and more! Convene with other farm to school stakeholders from across the state to share, learn, and collaborate.
At the event, we will launch our statewide Nebraska Farm to School Network and walk you through resources to stay connected with Farm to School year-round. The agenda is complete with keynote speakers, breakout sessions for deeper dives into Farm to School concepts, and plenty of opportunities for networking. This summit will give you the resources, support, and connections you need to make your life easier.

Sales and Use Tax Class for Small Business (Kansas)
2024-10-22 09:00 - 12:00
Date: 10/22/2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM (CDT)
Registration Deadline: 10/22/2024 8:00 AM (CDT)
Fee: No Fee
Point of Contact: Brenda Hampton (785) 628-4563
Program Format: Online Meeting (Live)
Training Topics: Tax Planning
Description:

Presented by Kansas Department of Revenue

Kansas Retailers’ Sales Tax and Compensating Use Tax
Goods and Services subject to Sales Tax
Record Keeping and Filing Requirements
Form Preparation
Exemption Certificate
Withholding Requirements

Registration Policies:

Registration and Fees: Payment of fees may be made online by credit card in advance to reserve seating. If you need to make other arrangements, please contact ksbdc@fhsu.edu.
Refund Policy: If you are unable to attend, you may also elect to send a substitute in your place with advance notice. If the event is cancelled, all fees will be returned.
Special Accommodations: Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities if made at least two weeks in advance by contacting ksbdc@fhsu.edu. Registration is required for reasonable accommodation requests.
Website: https://ksbdc.ecenterdirect.com/events/28469

Better Process Control School (Acidified Foods) Training
2024-10-24 08:00 - 2024-10-25 12:30 | Eckles Event Hall, 1406 E Rollins St., Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
The Better Process Control School (Acidified Foods) is an FDA-recognized course providing instruction primarily for operators, supervisors and manufacturers meeting the requirements stated in 21 CFR 114.10 and 21 CFR 108.25. The training is tailored for operators or manufacturers who produce thermally processed acidified foods. Those who complete the course will receive a Certificate of Course Completion to fulfill the training requirement of the FDA Acidified regulation.
Course Duration: 1.5 days
Timings: Oct 24, 2024: 8:00am to 5:00pm and Oct 25, 2024: 8:30am to 12:30pm. Lunch will be provided on day 1 (Oct 24, 2024).
Detailed information: https://extension.missouri.edu/events/better-process-control-school-acidified-foods-training
Examination:
There will be exams on the topics covered in the course immediately following the lecture. Exams are based on the FDA-approved standardized curriculum. A minimum score of =70% for each exam is needed to pass the school. Exams are open book and multiple choice and will be through Qualtrics. Upon successful completion of the school, participants will receive a certificate and their names will be submitted to the FDA. Participants who fail to secure a minimum 70% score may not be able to receive the Certificate of Course Completion.
Cost: $450
Contact: Lakshmikantha Channaiah, lchannaiah@missouri.edu, 573-882-2673
Partners:
Dept. Food Science, MU-Extension and MAFFIC.

Introduction to Language Justice (bilingual) - Grand Island, Neb.
2024-10-31 09:00 - 13:00 | Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W. Second St., Grand Island, NE, United States
Does your organization or business have difficulty communicating with non-English-speaking audiences? You can increase participation opportunities and community engagement by eliminating language and cultural barriers at meetings, focus groups, and events, all while creating a bigger impact.
During this event you will explore historical language oppression and learn the key elements of language justice, how to use Zoom interpretation and interpretation devices, how to model language justice in community settings, and much more.
Cost: Free
When: Thursday, Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W. Second St., Grand Island, Nebraska
Registration is required for this event by Wednesday, Oct. 30. Click here to register.
Questions/assistance with registering: Contact Nina Lanuza at ninal@cfra.org or 402.380.0785
Sponsor: The Center for Rural Affairs

Missouri Farmers Union 2024 Annual Meeting Featuring Will Harris
2024-11-07 16:00 - 20:00 | Bradford Research Farm, 4968 S Rangeline Rd, Columbia, MO, 65201, United States
Missouri Farmers Union will host our 2024 Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7th at the Bradford Research Farm in Columbia.
Bradford Research Farm
4968 S Rangeline Road
Columbia, MO 65201

Join us for good programming and better company!
$30 per ticket for MOFU members
$60 per ticket for non-members
Purchase tickets here: https://checkout.eventcreate.com/missouri-farmers-union-am24/select-buy
EVENT SCHEDULE
4:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Networking Happy Hour & Book Signing
4:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Welcome, MOFU President Tom Coudron
4:45 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Dr. Babu Valliyodan, Lincoln University, Hemp: Your Next Cash Crop
5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Will Harris, White Oak Pastures, Regenerative Ag
6:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Dinner by Peachtree Catering
7:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. Katie Nixon, Heartland Regional Food, Business Builder Grant
7:15 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Panel Discussion with Will Harris and Local Regenerative Ag Leaders
Panelists:
– Will Harris, White Oak Pastures
– Greg Judy, Green Pastures Farm
– Bill Sullivan, Sullivan Farms
– Liz Graznak, Happy Hollow Farm
– Emily Wright, Three Creeks Farm and Forest
See you there!

Southwest Iowa Local Food Summit
2024-11-08 09:00 - 16:00 | Liberty Memorial Community Center, 501 Main St, Malvern, IA, United States
About: Join us Nov. 8 for the second annual Southwest Iowa Local Foods Summit featuring educational sessions from regional speakers, businesses along Malvern’s Main Street, locally sourced food, and networking opportunities.
Session topics will include:

Farm to school
Rural grocery store initiatives
Breakouts for local farmers on production and marketing

The summit will also include:

Free breakfast and lunch (catered by Classic Cafe in Malvern)
Exhibitor booths and farm stands for community members to gather resources and shop
Real-time interpretation from English to Spanish will be available

Cost: free
Register by Friday, Nov. 1. To register, click here.
When: Friday, Nov. 8, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Liberty Memorial Community Center, 501 Main St., Malvern, Iowa
Questions/assistance contact: Angelyn Wang at angelynw@cfra.org or 402.870.1721
Hosted by: Center for Rural Affairs and Golden Hills RC&D

Anti-Poverty Advocates Summit
2024-11-12 08:00 - 2024-11-13 17:00 | Stoney Creek Hotel, Columbia, MO, 2601 S Providence Rd, Columbia, MO, 65203, United States
For over 120 years Empower Missouri has brought together a team of anti-poverty advocates to learn together, make connections, and advance our mission. Our 2024 Anti-Poverty Advocates Summit will be held in at Stoney Creek Hotel in Columbia, Missouri on November 12th and 13th. You won’t want to miss it!
Attendees will receive training, support and inspiration to advocate on affordable housing, criminal legal system reform, food security, and other anti-poverty issues. We’ll have two amazing keynote presentations, from Andrea Elliott and Merideth Rose, and you’ll have access to workshops (more details here) from local and national anti-poverty organizations, and coalition meetings to finalize policy agendas for the 2025 legislative session that starts in January. Together, we will use our voices to influence policy that will bring an end to poverty.
Click Here to Read Session Descriptions
Visit the website for additional information, including membership savings, hotel, and contact: Anti-Poverty Advocates Summit – Empower Missouri

Shared Kitchen Summit in New Orleans, LA
2024-11-12 09:00 - 2024-11-15 17:00 | The Conference Center on II, 601 Poydras Street, 11th Floor, New Orleans, LA, 70130, United States
The Shared Kitchen Summit is taking place in New Orleans, LA from November 12-15. The Shared Kitchen Summit is a four-day event built by shared kitchens, for shared kitchens. More than an event, it’s become the cornerstone to swapping best practices and accessing priceless hands-on data and technical know-how for running successful shared kitchen projects and programs. Attendees will access:

Expert-led panels
1:1 mentoring
Deep dive breakout sessions
Direct connections to industry resources
Local food systems tour
Shared Kitchen 101 Pre-Summit Workshop for pre-revenue and beginning kitchens (optional)

Each year Summit organizers put out an application for scholarships from underinvested communities to attend this technical assistance-rich event. This year 56 applications were submitted and Summit organizers have been able to cover 18 attendees.
Applications were submitted from businesses across the nation, if you are interested in supporting applicants from your region by either offering support for a scholarship or connecting with individuals and businesses to provide other forms of technical support, please reach out to tyler@thefoodcorridor.com. Additionally, please also reach out if you are interested in attending the conference!
For specific ticket information, click here: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/thefoodcorridor/1255138

Kansas Rural Center Food and Farm Conference
2024-11-16 08:30 - 15:30 | Broadview Hotel, 400 West Douglas Avenue, Wichita, KS, 67202, United States
Saturday, November 16th | Drury Broadview Hotel | Wichita, KS | $45
Join Common Ground Producers & Growers at this year’s Kansas Rural Center (KRC) Food and Farm Conference. Each year, KRC provides current commentary on real issues that our farmers and their communities face. This year’s keynote speaker, Austin Frerick, author of Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America’s Food, will highlight the increasing dominance of big business in our food system and the need for KRC’s ongoing efforts to keep our farmers on the land and to ensure the availability of healthy local food for all Kansans.
3 FREE spots available! If you are in the Greater Wichita area reply to this email letting us know that you are interested in attending. First come, first serve.
Follow this link for more information: 2024 Annual Conference — Kansas Rural Center

Kansas Farmers Union Pre-Convention Training
2024-11-18 - 2024-11-19 | Springhill Suites Marriott, One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS, 66044, United States
November 18-19th – Pre Convention Training | SpringHill Suites Marriott One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS
Join us at the Kansas Farmers Union Pre-Convention Farmers Training Monday, November 18th from 1 PM – 6:30 PM & Tuesday, November 19th 8 AM – 5 PM. Continue your stay for the Kansas Farmers Union Convention the 20-21st, all happening in Lawrence, Kansas.
Whether you’re an experienced specialty crop grower or just starting out, the pre-convention training offers valuable insights for both urban and rural agriculture enthusiasts, community gardeners and growers. Covering topics from canning to marketing your products, you’ll gain a wealth of knowledge from industry experts across various facets of agriculture.
Scholarships are limited and will be given to those who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color who are growers, food system stakeholders, and people interested in creating an equitable food system. Scholarships include 100% of pre-convention training and hotel stay or mileage.
Apply Here!
Scholarship applications will be accepted through November 8, 2024. Applicants will be notified on November 12, 2024
Reach out to Kansas Farmers Union for more information: Home | Kansas Farmers Union

The Conscience of Agriculture - Kansas Farmers Union's 2024 State Convention
2024-11-20 09:00 - 2024-11-21 15:00 | One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS, 66044, United States
Join us for our annual state convention where you’ll hear from wonderful speakers, vote on leadership and state policy, and connect with other Kansas farmers and ranchers.
Please contact Nick Levendofsky at nick@kansasfarmersunion.org if you are a beginning/emerging farmer and would like to apply for a scholarship.
Visit this link for a pdf. version of the tentative convention schedule: https://4c460b82-4bdf-4db7-94a6-d5913fab96bc.usrfiles.com/ugd/3ba50b_5c10e3fb9f0c416fbcff51d26341a765.pdf
Visit this link for prices, tickets, and more information: https://www.kansasfarmersunion.org/event-details-registration/kansas-farmers-union-2024-state-convention
Time & Location

Nov 20, 2024, 9:00 AM CST – Nov 21, 2024, 3:00 PM CST
Lawrence, One Riverfront Plaza, Lawrence, KS 66044, USA

Kansas Farmers Union
115 E. Marlin, Suite #108,

PO Box 1064McPherson, KS 67460
​Phone: 620-241-6630
Fax: 620-241-8054
Email: info@kansasfarmersunion.com

The Power of Storytelling in Today’s Media Landscape
2024-11-21 12:00 - 13:00
Is your small business ready to share its story with the community? Join Monique Farmer, APR and WOWT News Anchor and Reporter for The Power of Storytelling in Today’s Media Landscape—your introduction to media relations and how to leverage the art of storytelling to connect with the media and your customer audience/clients. Whether you’re looking to get your business featured in the media or simply strengthen your brand, this session will give you the tools you need to tell your story in a way that gets noticed. Don’t miss out on this essential media relations 101 discussion!
Can’t attend? Register anyway and we’ll send you the recording!
Register here: Webinar Registration – Zoom

Grant Writing Basics Course – K-State Research & Extension
2024-12-03 18:00 - 2024-12-05 20:30
K-State Research & Extension is offering a Grant Writing Basics course consisting of two (3-hour) online live sessions with many additional resources. We’ve organized a two-part series specifically for our food system partners, farmers, and food business owners interested in grant writing. Whether you’ve never written a grant proposal before and have no idea where to start, or for those who have experience but are looking for ways to improve your approach, we encourage you to attend. Participants are encouraged to bring their grants or grant ideas to share.
December 3-5, 2024, 6:00 – 8:30 PM
Topics include:

Sources of data for community needs
Where to find grants
Elements of a great grant proposal
Practicing the grant elements: Problem, Outcome, Activity, Evaluation, Budget

For more information, please contact:
Nancy Daniels
nkdaniels@ksu.edu
*Refunds are not available for this program

Free webinar explores funding for small farmers, food producers
2024-12-12 18:00 - 19:00
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension offers a free webinar to explore grant, loan and cost-share opportunities for small farm and food business operators. The webinar is 6-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12.
MU Extension horticulturist Justin Keay says the workshop is timely. “In the past several years, we have seen a variety of new federally supported programs developed targeting small farms and food producers. This is a good opportunity to learn about these programs while funding is available,” Keay says.
The webinar covers grants through the Center for Regenerative Agriculture and Heartland Regional Food Business Center, loans from the Farm Service Agency and cost-share programs from the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
“This will be a great webinar bringing together partners who support small farms and food businesses,” he says. As a bonus, one attendee will win a free registration to the 2025 Great Plains Growers Conference (www.GreatPlainsGrowersConference.org) in St. Joseph, which Keay says is the premier fruit and vegetable growers conference in the region for learning, networking and growing your farm.
Register for the free webinar at http://muext.us/SPSF2024.

State Sales Tax for Retailers
2024-12-16 09:00 - 12:00
This webinar is presented in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Revenue and is devoted to explaining the differences between the Kansas Retailers’ Sales Tax, the Kansas Retailers’ Compensating Use Tax, and the Kansas Consumers Compensating Use Tax.
You will gain a basic understanding of the goods and services subject to sales tax. It will also explain the record keeping and filing requirements, form preparation, how to use exemption certificates, and Withholding Tax.
Date: January 21st , 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm
Cost: None
Location: Online.
You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on January 20th, 2025

The Last-Minute Holiday Market - This year, it's okay to procrastinate.
2024-12-18 12:00 - 19:00 | WSU Hughes Metropolitan Complex, 5015 E 29th St. North., Wichita, Kansas, 67220, United States
Our Last-Minute Holiday Market on December 18, 2024, is the perfect platform to showcase your products and services to a bustling crowd of last-minute shoppers. Purposefully scheduled after Wichita State University finals but before Super Saturday (December 21) we’re targeting those procrastinators who want to find the perfect gift but just haven’t had time. Plus, Santa Claus will be stopping by the Holiday Market for photos and those last-minute wish list additions! Here’s what to expect:
• We plan to have food trucks serving lunch and dinner.
• Conveniently located at the WSU Hughes Metropolitan Complex with ample free parking.
• There are a limited number of tables are available for an additional fee or bring your own.
• Service providers must be able to sell gift certificates of some kind.
• There will be a mandatory pre-market Zoom meeting on Wednesday, December 11, at 4:00 p.m.
• Internet is not available for vendor sales processing; a signed agreement that you will not use WSU WiFi is required.
• We will encourage cash sales and plan to bring in an ATM for this purpose.
• The Kansas SBDC at WSU is unable to fund advertising for this event. However, we will actively promote it within the community. To ensure the event’s success, we kindly request that vendors contribute to the event’s promotion, such as by donating items for door prize gift baskets.
If you have any questions about the market, please contact email rebecca.ignowski@wichita.edu. Date: Wednesday, December 18, 2024.
Market Hours: Noon – 6:00 p.m. Setup: 10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Lunch: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Dinner: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Teardown: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Costs: $25.00 for 10′ x 10′ Booth Space $20.00 for 8′ x 8′ Booth Space $5.00 for 30″ x 6′ Table (Optional)

Accounting for Non-Accountants - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-01-07 12:00 - 13:00
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by financial terms like “balance sheet” or “income statement”?
This introductory session, designed specifically for those new to accounting, is the perfect starting point. By gaining a grasp of financial cornerstones, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions that contribute to the success and growth of your business.
Date: January 7th, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: None Location: Online.
You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on January 6th, 2025

Great Plains Growers Conference
2025-01-09 08:00 - 2025-01-11 16:00 | Missouri Western University, 4525 Downs Drive, Saint Joseph, MO, 64507, United States
Pre-Conference WORKSHOPS January 9th conference & Trade Show January 10-11th

Welcome to the 2025 Great Plains Growers Conference!
We are excited to invite you to join us from January 9-11 for an enriching experience at the premier event for vegetable, fruit, cut flower, and specialty crop growers from across Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Each year, this 3-day conference draws 350-400 dedicated growers, ranging from full-time farm market vendors to part-time diversified horticulture producers, for a deep dive into the latest industry trends and practices.
Kick off the conference on Thursday, January 9th, with our full-day, topic-specific workshops, which are available for a separate admission fee. These focused sessions offer an opportunity to delve into specialized areas, including Hard Cider, Marketing Boot Camp, and Nut Orchards.
The main conference takes place on Friday, January 10th, and Saturday, January 11th, featuring a diverse range of educational tracks. Throughout these two days, you can attend concurrent sessions covering vital topics such as:

Business Development & Marketing
Vegetable Production
Greenhouse & Hydroponic Production
Protected Culture (Tunnels)
Integrated Pest Management
Forest Farming
S ARE Farmer Forum
Tree Fruits/Small Fruits
Organic/Regenerative Farming
Cut Flowers

In addition to the informative sessions, our conference also includes a vibrant trade show with over 40 exhibitors showcasing the latest products and services in the industry.
The 2025 conference will be held from 9th -11th of January at Missouri Western University, St. Joseph, MO and will be in-person. To register and for more information, please visit: Great Plains Growers Conference – 2025 Great Plains Growers Conference
For additional information: GPGC c/o Buchanan County Extension, 4125 Mitchell Ave., St. Joseph, MO 64507, Tel. 816-279-1691 Email: Buchananco@missouri.edu
See you in January!

Startup and Start Right - Kansas SBDC at WSU
2025-01-14 12:00 - 13:00
Ready to turn your business idea into reality?
This webinar untangles the startup process and guides you through ten essential steps. We’ll navigate licenses, taxes, business structure, funding, and more with clear explanations and actions to take!
Date: January 14th, 2025
Time: 12:00pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: None Location: Online.
You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on January 13th, 2025

Crack the Code on Pricing: Maximize Profits in Local Markets
2025-01-14 12:00 - 13:00
Are you a small-scale farmer or food-based entrepreneur struggling to find the sweet spot between profit and customer satisfaction? Join the Heartland Regional Food Business Center for this dynamic webinar where we’ll demystify the art of pricing your products. Dr. Mallory Rahe from the University of Missouri will share practical strategies to set prices based on your cost of production and show you how to create different financial scenarios for business planning. Whether you’re selling at the farmers’ market, online, or through a CSA, this session will empower you to price with confidence and boost your bottom line!
To learn more, register here: https://unl.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYrcOCsrzIuGNzKUu0uM_XdpAOyv6d73Or4

Unlocking Opportunities with the 8(A)Small Business Development Program
2025-01-16 12:00 - 13:00
Join us for an in-depth look at the 8(A) Small Business Development Program.
This webinar will cover key eligibility requirements, the application process, and the benefits of becoming a part of this exclusive government program, giving your business access to federal contracting opportunities and valuable business development resources
Date: January 16th, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 pm
Cost: None
Location: Online.
You will receive information about how to connect.
*Registration closes at Noon on January 13th, 2024
