In spring of 2015, Regional Economic Development and Business Management Unit of OMAFRA, Harvest Hastings and the Small Business Centre delivered the ‘Starting or Growing your Food Business?‘ two-part series workshop in Stirling. Part one was ‘Exploring Value-Added Opportunities (EVAO)’ and part-two was ‘Market Considerations’.
The EVAO workshop covered such topics as selecting your best idea, assessing your idea’s business potential, and key next steps. Participants were provided with excellent tools and resources to assist them in converting their dreams (idea) into reality.
The Market Considerations workshop covered a range of topics, including food business related demographics in eastern Ontario, the most recent trends in consumer trends in food purchasing from Foodland Ontario, a basic food safety session, and nutrition and labeling information.
Attendance was excellent at both sessions and both were extremely well-received.
“Excellent workshop! Demonstrated how much there is to learn.”
“Very informative and helpful. Has helped me to move forward with my plans of opening a bakery”
“A lot of solid information and sharing for exploring ideas. Good tips and offers of assistance – lots of worksheets of guide planning. Thank you.”
Respondents indicated that they had renewed or made new connections as a result of the Market Considerations workshop, and over half of the respondents indicated that they would be increasing their investment and/or creating jobs in their business.
The EVAO workshop is also available online as an eLearning course that allows users to complete the course at their own pace and at a time that suits their schedule. To explore this online learning option, visit:
To access the EVAO home page: http://www.ontario.ca/e996
To access the eLearning modules: http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/busdev/diversifyfarmbus/elearning.html
For more information please contact the Agricultural Information Contact Centre at 1-877-424-1300.
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