Florida Small Business Development Center at the University of North Florida (Florida SBDC at UNF)
The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network, the state’s principal provider of small business assistance, has extended the deadline for a pilot program to help farmers and producers maximize their growth potential through export sales.
The Agribusiness Export Marketing Plan provides qualified recipients with a customized export marketing plan. Designed to assist new-to-export and currently exporting growers and value-added producers, the export marketing plan encompasses an in-depth report that identifies target markets, market entry strategies, a competitive analysis, as well as an action plan for market entry.
The program is designed for Florida Farmers and value-added producers only. To be eligible, food producers must show 51 percent of their food product from Florida. Products must be produced in the State of Florida and must be provided from a Florida-based location. Businesses must have a minimum of three years in business and $500,000 in annual sales.
Once qualified, farmers meet with a Florida SBDC International Trade Specialist to conduct a confidential, in-depth business assessment. The specialist will then prepare and provide a customized export marketing plan.
The cost to prepare an Agribusiness Export Marketing Plan is $5,000. Qualifying companies are eligible for a $4,750 scholarship, making the cost only $250.
“Agriculture is critical to Florida’s economy,” said Michael Myhre, CEO and Network State Director of the Florida SBDC. “We are very excited about the potential this program holds for our state’s agricultural producers.”
The application deadline has been extended until December 1, 2017. For more information, and to apply, please visit http://floridasbdc.org/services/agribusiness-export-marketing-plan-services/. For questions, please call 1-800-450-4624.