National Farm Viability Conference: Full Schedule

arrow_back View All Dates

9:00am MDT

11:00am MDT

Expanding Value-Added Processing for Institutional Markets: Barriers, Roles, and Solutions

Wednesday September 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm MDT

Interest in institutional procurement of local and regional foods is growing rapidly, driven by policy, philanthropy, and demand from schools, hospitals, and universities. Yet turning raw agricultural products into food-service-ready items remains a major challenge. This moderated panel brings together processors, distributors, educators, and institutions to share real-world successes and failures in value-added processing. Panelists will highlight barriers such as pricing, equipment needs, and limited usability, while showcasing solutions through partnerships, technical assistance, and innovative business models. Participants will gain practical insights into market analysis, product development, labeling, funding, and building connections between producers and buyers. The session will also engage attendees in discussion to share experiences and contribute to a collective set of strategies for strengthening value-added processing nationwide.

Speakers

Libby Christensen

Statewide Food and Ag Specialist, Colorado State University

Dr. Libby Christensen has nearly 20 years of experience strengthening Colorado's food and agriculture economy by connecting producers, markets, and food businesses. As CSU Extension's Statewide Food and Agriculture Specialist, she supports value-added companies and advances market... Read More →

Amy Buskirk

Food Systems Education Program Manager, ValleyHUB

Amy Buskirk is the Food Systems Education Program Manager at ValleyHUB, a social enterprise food hub operated by Kalamazoo Valley Community College. In this role, she provides technical assistance and educational support to small to mid-size farms scaling into wholesale markets and... Read More →

Brandon Seng

Director of Programs, Great Lakes Farm to Freezer

Brandon Seng is the founder of Michigan Farm to Freezer, a company dedicated to making locally grown Michigan produce available year-round. Raised on a family Christmas tree farm in Northern Michigan, Brandon began his career leading farmers markets and local food initiatives before... Read More →