Assessing the Impact of USDA LFPP in Facilitating Producer Scale-Up to Wholesale Markets

Assessing the Impact of USDA LFPP in Facilitating Producer Scale-Up to Wholesale Markets Abstract This research proposal will investigate and analyze the impact of the USDA''s Local Food Promotion Program (USDA LFPP) in supporting producers who desire to scale up their operations and successfully enter wholesale markets. Wholesale markets defined here represents those intermediated markets involving a commercial aggregator and distributor assisting sales into grocery, restaurant and institutional markets. The USDA LFPP aims to promote local and regional food systems, enhance access to fresh and healthy food, and stimulate economic opportunities for farmers and producers. The LFPP program funds projects that develop, coordinate, and expand local and regional food business enterprises engaging as intermediaries in indirect producer-to- consumer marketing. The fund helps increase access to and availability of locally and regionally produced agricultural products and helps develop businesses that support local and regional food systems. This research aims to evaluate the outcomes and effectiveness of LFPP funding in assisting producers to transition and expand their presence in wholesale markets.