Improve the viability of the agricultural sector in
the region by identifying consumer
demand and helping farm and food system businesses and entrepreneurs
convert that
demand into new ventures.
processing facilities,
marketing campaigns,
valuechain partnerships, and
new infrastructure.
Provide revitalization opportunities for metropolitan
Detroit and other urban areas
in the region through:
business development and job creation,
increased demand and incentives for the re-use and redevelopment of
older buildings (particularly for use as processing and distribution
facilities), and
reduced chronic unemployment.
Create wealth for the region
as an array of diverse new businesses and economic
development ventures are launched and revenue growth is strategically and
aggressively
reinvested by project partners in additional ventures and
infrastructure.
Improve consumer understanding of what is produced,
processed and marketed in
the region and
Improve producer understanding of consumer needs.
Improve land use policy and decision-making over the
long-term by translating
demand side knowledge of the food system into economic opportunities.
Project
partners will gain a tool for policy, programs and projects that preserve
the
integrity/viability of the regional landscape.
