Ag Summit

Experience a one-day conference developed specifically with food, beverage and agriculture based businesses in mind. During the opening session we'll introduce you to various local resources and take a deeper dive into what it takes to become a small farm business owner and an overview of what and who you'll need to get it off the ground the right way. Keeping pace with the agribusiness industry and the issues impacting growth and sustainability is a full-time job. Join us and reflect on how to make your existing agribusiness or idea stronger and deepen your understanding of what it takes to be successful for the long term.

SCC Agribusiness Summit Agenda November 13, 2024

9:00 AM - 9:30 AM: Opening Remarks and Welcome

Session 1 (9:30-10:30) Title: "Stand Out & Sell: Mastering Presentation for Farmers Markets and Roadside Stands" Description: In this interactive workshop, learn how to make a lasting impression and attract more customers to your farmers market booth or roadside stand. From visual displays and signage to customer engagement and layout strategies, we’ll cover practical tips to present your products in the best light and create a welcoming experience for customers. Whether you’re a seasoned vendor or just starting out, this session will help you put your best foot forward, build customer trust, and boost sales.

Session 2 (10:30-11:30) Title: "Marketing Made Simple: Boosting Your Reach Beyond the Stand" Description: This add-on session dives into the essentials of marketing for small farms and agricultural businesses. Learn how to promote your stand or booth using social media, local advertising, and customer loyalty strategies. We'll explore easy-to-implement tactics for reaching new customers, keeping regulars engaged, and building a memorable brand. By the end of this session, you’ll have practical tools and ideas to expand your reach and create a stronger connection with your community.

Session 3 (11:30-12:30) Title: Food & Drug Rules & Regulations for Home Processing, Low-Risk and Value-Added Foods Description: In this session, you will learn more about the NC Department of Agriculture and their role in your food-based business. Low-risk foods will be defined and specific regulations and guidelines outlined for you. In addition, the federal and state requirements and laws over home processing and low-risk foods will be thoroughly explained, as will the inspection process. Examples will be provided and opportunities for questions and answers.

12:30-1:00- Lunch

Session 4 (1:00-2:00) Title: Food Systems and Partnerships for Local Agribusinesses Description: Learn more about building networks with local restaurants, schools and markets to grow your business and enhance local food distribution.

Session 5 (2:00-3:00) Title: Mountain Agriculture Business: Unique Challenges and Opportunities Description: Discuss the specific challenges of farming in mountain terrain and learn how to leverage local resources.

Tonya is founder and CEO of tenBiz, Inc., a firm of business professionals that provides training, consulting and project management services to small businesses, organizations, and several SBCs across the state. She has over 25 years of experience in business development and consulting, with expertise in commercial lending, leadership development, marketing and entrepreneurship. As a business owner herself, she sees first-hand the challenges and opportunities that exist in today's competitive and volatile environment. Her philosophy in creating tenBiz was to build a "one stop-shop" for business owners and leaders by having a team of vetted experts who are well established in their respective fields. tenBiz operates on the belief that every company is different, just like every company's growth looks different- therefore, helping clients choose the right strategy and tools to tackle each situation is critical.