MADISON CO., N.Y. — Cornell Cooperative Extension of Madison County (CCE MC) has been awarded a 3-year Chobani Community Impact Fund to provide the initial support for developing an innovative Agricultural Support and Launch Center for Business Enhancement and Entrepreneurship. The Center will leverage existing resources and expertise for agricultural producers and create a comprehensive ‘one stop shop’ that will support business operations and expansions through education and empowerment while reducing barriers to success.
The Center is anticipated to include shared work space with computers and access to high speed broadband; business and graphic design software; video & audio space for creating web based messaging and broadcasts; digital templates for SOP’s; and a resource of best practices for operations and regulations. Tools will be complimented by educational seminars and one-on-one meetings.
CCE MC received a Chobani Community Impact fund in the prior year to support agricultural entrepreneurship programming including direct support for marketing and promotion materials for program enrollees. This second round grant builds on the success of that program and provides further depth of offerings and support. “We are incredibly thankful to Chobani for seeing the benefits this project will have for our agriculture community and for their continued direct support of our farmers.” Dr. Karin Bump, CCE MC Executive Director.
The first phase of the grant project includes an interest and needs assessment survey of the Madison County agricultural community. Results of the survey will be used in operational planning including decisions on initial equipment and software. The survey is anticipated to launch in March and will be available in electronic form via social media and email distribution lists as well as in print form at the CCE MC office.
For more information on this new initiative and/or other Cornell Cooperative Extension Madison County programs, please feel free to contact Dr. Karin Bump at kbump@cornell.edu, 315-684-3001, visit www.madisoncce.org, and/or follow us on Facebook.
–Cornell Cooperative Extension Madison County
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