Resources for Farmers, Producers, and Food Business Owners

Per the USDA announcement on July 15, 2025, the Regional Food Business Centers program was terminated, prior to its original end date of July 2028. Because of this, the Great Lakes Midwest Regional Food Business Center halted operations on September 15, 2025 and was unable to responsibly launch the Business Builder Subaward and assistance programs. Please see our related press release. Resources intended to help food and farm businesses will remain freely available on this website.

Loan readiness for First Time Borrowers Resource Sheet

Published on December 5, 2025
In this resource sheet, you will find a loan readiness checklist, financing options, key terms, and quick tip to help prepare food and farm business entrepreneurs for their first time through the lending process.
Demystifying Grant Terms

Published on December 5, 2025
Navigating grant funding can be complex and overwhelming - and it can be hard to know where to start! This guide aims to define basic grant terms and provide an understanding of terms that may be used for applying for funding.
Wholesale Produce Guide Template for Buyers

Published on November 25, 2025
Developed by the NWI Food Council, this Wholesale Produce Guide Template can help wholesale buyers simplify the steps of grading and packing as a way to support farmer success.
Beginning Food and Farm Business Market Access

Published on November 25, 2025
Food and farm business owners in the early stages of launching and marketing their business can explore multiple resources to learn how to increase sales and enter new markets.
Branding and Marketing Self-Guided Course for Food and Farm Businesses

Published on November 25, 2025
This course is a no-cost resource designed for food and farm entrepreneurs in the early stages of launching their business. Containing five modules, the self-guided course allows users to complete it at their own pace and explore specific marketing needs.

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Support for the Great Lakes Midwest Regional Food Business Center came from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service Regional Food Business Centers Program. The 12 USDA Regional Food Business Centers supported all 50 U.S. States and Territories, and were inclusive of all types of agricultural products produced locally or regionally.