By Blake Jackson
On Thursday, February 20, 2025, businesses involved in local and regional food distribution will gather in La Crosse, Wisconsin, for a networking and collaboration event.
The meeting will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at 212 6th Street North, Suite 2200. Hosted by UW-Extension, this gathering will serve as a lead-in to the 2025 Marbleseed Organic Farming Conference.
The event will feature lightning talks starting at 10:00 a.m., covering topics such as distribution, data management, collaborative logistics, and funding opportunities.
Presenters will include representatives from the Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative, Wisconsin Food Systems, the UW Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems, and the Great Lakes Midwest Food Business Center.
Additionally, the Great Lakes Common Market will provide insights on Chicago’s food distribution scene, while the Great Lakes Intertribal Food Coalition has been invited to discuss collaboration efforts.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to share their own projects and ideas during an open mic session. Several organizations are co-hosting the event, including UW-La Crosse Extension, UW-Madison Division of Extension Community Food Systems, and Wisconsin Food Systems.
A wide range of participants have already confirmed their attendance, including representatives from farms, cooperatives, and food hubs across the region.
Those interested in co-hosting can contact Wisconsin Food Systems. While RSVPs are appreciated, they are not required. To RSVP or request additional details, email mmmille6@wisc.edu. Stay tuned for updates and more information.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera
Categories: Wisconsin, Business