1.1: Starting a Value-Added Enterprise
Value-added agriculture may take many forms. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Rural Business Development defines it as the incremental value that is realized by the producer from an agricultural commodity or product as the result of:
- a change in its physical state
- differentiated production or marketing, as demonstrated in a business plan
- product segregation
- the economic benefit realized from the production of farm- or ranch-based renewable energy
Value-added ventures may also take the form of organic production, agritainment, or any number of activities or processes that yield an increase in value. This section will provide information concerning value-added agriculture, but it cannot be all-inclusive. Even if you are considering a venture not covered here, the information provided may assist in your search for more information.
Adding Value to Farm Products: An Overview
Center for Profitable Agriculture
An information source with an emphasis on developing value-added agricultural ventures and marketing concepts.
List of Alternative Crop and Enterprises for Small Farm Diversification
Michigan State University Value-Added Agriculture
Increase profitability through adding value to your products.
PA Food Ventures
Fact sheets, links to regulations, testing labs, and additional information.
United States Department of Agriculture
USDA on farm value-added information.
Starting a Value-Added Agribusiness: The Legal Perspective
Information covering business planning and risk management associated with a value-added enterprise.
Understanding Pricing Objectives and Strategies For the Value-Added Ag Producer
This is a free publication available through Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Distribution Department covering value-added products.
Value-added Agriculture Grows Markets
Value-Added Marketing Series, Penn State Extension
Value-Added Opportunities
ADC Info #68: A short factsheet on the principles of starting a value-added enterprise.
