Hope main will support and expand directtoconsumer marketing for locally processed food products leveraging the capabilities of rhode islands premier food business incubator

The project anticipates the participation of 150 new food producers with approximately 40 of these businesses being locally operated alongside 100 existing members and other regional food processors growers and producers. This initiative will utilize four key distribution channels hope mains onsite markets regional farmers markets the farm fresh RI market mobile program and coastal food sheds virtual market as well as the annual RI tabletop show. The project aims to facilitate the successful launch growth and longterm viability of these food businesses supporting a network of stakeholders involved in the production and distribution of food products. The project will provide assistance to food processors and producers looking to establish and scale their operations. The anticipated outcome is the increased visibility and sales of these products to consumers throughout rhode island. The primary beneficiaries include food processors farmers ranchers and the consumers who purchase these goods and all involved stakeholders within the regional food system.