Farm2LocalBiz event boosts local food sourcing
Farm2LocalBiz hosted its first networking event on November 12 at Colorado State University’s Durrell Center, bringing together a vibrant community of over 100 local farmers, ranchers, chefs, and distributors.
The event aimed to strengthen connections between local producers and food businesses, helping commercial markets source fresh, local products directly from Colorado’s agricultural landscape.
The event featured a variety of local products, from salad greens, mushrooms, and honey to meats such as beef and bison.
Each producer had a booth to showcase their items, while representatives from food businesses sampled the offerings, considering potential partnerships.
CSU Catering’s Chef Scott Clagett prepared refreshments using ingredients from the participating producers, creating a welcoming atmosphere that highlighted the quality of local goods. Local beverages, including brews from Stodgy Brewing and wines from Colorado wineries, completed the experience.
Jessica Callen, Agriculture and Natural Resource Specialist for Larimer County CSU Extension, noted, “Agricultural producers in northern Colorado report it can be a challenge to connect with local commercial markets. Our hope is that Farm2LocalBiz changes that.”
Producers like Dennis Lacerte of Belafonte Farm in Fort Collins appreciated the opportunity to meet potential buyers. “The event was incredibly helpful as a producer.
When producers can meet buyers such as restaurants, institutions, wholesalers, and food hubs, connections are made and more local business can occur,” he explained.
To encourage more local purchasing, each attending commercial market received a $100 discount on their first transaction with a participating producer.
Hosted by Larimer County CSU Extension and backed by several organizations, Farm2LocalBiz reflects a commitment to expanding local food systems and supporting Colorado's agricultural economy.