The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a significant investment of over $40 million to establish the Appalachian Regional Food Business Center (RFBC) in collaboration with Rural Action, Inc. The center, based in The Plains, Ohio, aims to enhance local and regional food systems, empowering Ohio farmers and producers to sell more of their products within their communities while retaining greater profits in the region. Additionally, it will facilitate connections between Ohio farmers and wholesalers and distributors.
During a news conference call hosted by U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to transforming the food system by strengthening local and regional markets. The Appalachian RFBC will contribute to achieving this goal, benefiting farmers in Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.
The partnership with Rural Action will expand training and technical assistance resources, support local farmers and food entrepreneurs, and foster market development in the Appalachian region. By collaborating with other Regional Food Business Centers, cross-regional support and market growth will be promoted.
Ohio's Rural Action, known for its work in sustainable economic and community growth, will play a key role in implementing the Appalachian Rural Food Business Center. Senator Brown's advocacy for small farms and local food systems, demonstrated through initiatives like the Local Farms and Food Act, underscores his commitment to Ohio's rural communities. With his involvement in shaping the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill, Senator Brown continues to engage with farmers to ensure their perspectives inform agricultural policies that support local farmers and enhance food systems.
Photo Credit: Regional Food Business Centers
Categories: Ohio, Business, Government & Policy