Michigan Ag Connection - Summit Highlights Farming Industry, Expands Opportunities

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Summit Highlights Farming Industry, Expands Opportunities
Michigan Ag Connection - 03/22/2019

The Pure Michigan Agriculture Summit was designed for major purchasers and suppliers to explore potential partnerships in the state's growing agriculture and food processing industries. As Michigan recognized the month of March as Food and Agriculture Month, farmers and companies from across the state were expected to participate in the annual summit.

The summit was hosted by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's Pure Michigan Business Connect program and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. Organizers held the event at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo.

"There are increasing opportunities for Michigan businesses in agriculture and food processing," said PMBC Director Ryan Michael. "A critical ingredient in creating successful and substantial enterprises is understanding industry trends and building a cost-efficient, profitable supply chain. The building blocks for that model are at the agriculture summit."

There are more than 52,000 farms in Michigan. Studies showed Michigan's agriculture industry is the second most diverse in the nation, right behind California.

The summit was an opportunity to discuss how the state's agribusiness can expand and create more job opportunities. It featured studies about Michigan's fast changing agriculture industry. Summit directors said this business is a pillar in the state's economy.

They said farms and food processing companies generate products and jobs vital to the state's $104.7 billion food and agriculture industry.

The focus of the summit was to continue elevating this industry and support farmers. Part of the goal was also to expand opportunities for meal delivery services and global markets.

Experts said Michigan's top agricultural exports are processed food products, soybeans and soybean meal, dairy, feed, feed grains and fresh and processed vegetables.

"Michigan's vast and efficient supply chain and logistics system provides a cost-effective distribution system," said Jeff Mason, CEO of Michigan Economic Development Corporation. "From Michigan, farmers and food processing businesses can connect with world markets and have a competitive edge in responding to customer trends."

Experts said the state leads the nation in the production of 20 different commodities.

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