If you are a local farmer or a food buyer for an institution or retail establishment, you are invited to attend the Western UP Farmer/Buyer Meet and Greet. This is a unique opportunity to network, make plans to partner, discuss challenges, and lay the groundwork for getting more local food into schools, restaurants, hospitals, universities, and businesses. The demand for using local food is strong but requires a relationship between farmers and buyers. This is a great chance to start that process.

Everyone who plans to attend is encouraged to bring business cards to ensure successful networking and foster opportunities for follow-up. Farmers are encouraged to bring a product and price list and buyers should come prepared to discuss the details of desired products (crop quality, quantity, packaging, availability, etc.)

The session will also include a presentation on using the UP Food Exchange’s Online Marketplace, a website that facilitates the sale of local food. This site streamlines the ordering process and acts as a one-stop shop for selling and buying local food.

This event is sponsored by The Bearded Apple Cooperative, the Western UP Health Department, and the UP Food Exchange. Light refreshments will be provided. To learn more, contact Glen Waarvik at glen@thebeardedapple.com or visit www.upfoodexchange.com.