4 Ways Interviews Can Help Develop Regional Food Systems
The word interview typically brings to mind a discussion for the purposes of hiring, or a type of conversation that journalists have in order to write an article. Interviews are […]
Food Hub Networks: the Local Food Movement’s Future?
One thing I love about working in local food, and with food hubs in particular, is how the space is ever evolving. Planning organizations and current or aspiring food hub […]
9 Trends in Food Hub Planning
After two years working with incredible, diverse and passionate local project teams on dozens of food system assessments, I always get excited when we start a new project. We have […]
Local Food – A Solution for Vacant Buildings?
Traditionally, New Venture Advisors’ projects have been catalyzed by an individual or group passionate about strengthening their local food system. These community leaders often believe that market-based solutions might be […]
Let’s Get Feasible: 6 Exercises for a Great Feasibility Study
The term “feasibility study” seems to elicit a wide range of reactions ranging from skepticism to exhaustion to excitement. Where along this spectrum someone falls […]
4 Keys to Persuasive Business Plans (Part 2)
As mentioned in Part 1 of this post, these four aspects of a business plan can be the most compelling if well researched and presented: Value Proposition: a strong problem/solution […]
4 Keys to Persuasive Business Plans (Part 1)
I was recently a panelist in a breakout session about financing food hubs. My segment was on the importance of business planning in effectively raising money. With only 15 minutes […]
The One-page Annual Strategic Plan
It’s December. Countless large organizations have been in the midst of planning meetings, data analysis, and presentations to boards. However, so many employees see annual planning as just a dog-and-pony show with […]
It’s never too late (or too early) to write a business plan
We sometimes get calls from business leaders who are stuck. They lay out a number of issues hoping we can help them. This might be an owner of a food […]
