Market Ready Producer Training Program

Local farmers and food producers interested in expanding their businesses into wholesale markets are invited to participate in the Market Ready Producer Training Program, offered by Purdue Extension Northwest Region.

The all-day training is designed for producers who are interested in selling their products to restaurants, grocery stores, schools, wholesale distributors, or other larger markets. The program will also provide an opportunity for producers to explore additional marketing options and learn more about expanding their businesses. The training will include the Market Ready producer training, lunch, a buyer panel, and remarks from program partners. Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about what buyers are looking for and how they can prepare their businesses to successfully enter or expand into wholesale channels.

The registration fee is $50 per person. Thanks to sponsorship from the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, scholarships are available for eligible farmers and food producers.

To be eligible for a scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements: Operate an Indiana farm or value-added food business that produces or sells food products. Demonstrate a strong intent to enter or expand into wholesale channels, as indicated in their business plan or application to participate in the training. Be in good standing with the State of Indiana and not be suspended or debarred.

Farmers and food producers interested in receiving a scholarship are encouraged to contact Sarah Hanson to determine if they qualify.

Registration for the Market Ready Producer Training Program is available online at: https://web.cvent.com/event/b37128ec-c08f-4d34-9537-5b89545948d4/summary .

The Market Ready Producer Training Program is sponsored by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture and offered through Purdue Extension Northwest Region.

For more information about the training or scholarship opportunities, contact Sarah Hanson at sspeedy@purdue.edu.

Purdue University prohibits discrimination against any member of the University community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran.

If you are in need of accommodations to attend this program, please contact Rebecca Koetz prior to the meeting at 219-755-3240 or busser@purdue.edu by October 30, 2026.

For special dietary needs contact Rebecca Koetz at 219-755-3240 or busser@purdue.edu by October 30, 2026.

If you need an interpreter or translator, please contact Rebecca Koetz prior to the meeting at 219-755-3240 or busser@purdue.edu by October 30, 2026.