The most basic marketing assistance state government gives to agriculture is to assist in sales of existing products. Most states have a program in this area; each has a unique approach. Virginia's program comes closest to that recommended by several Kentucky focus groups. Sustainable agriculture in Virginia is a responsibility of the Division of Marketing, according to staff in that Division. Many in Virginia feel the state's 40,000 farmers do not have a competitive advantage producing raw commodities. A potential niche for many is selling products directly to consumers-- especially with the increasing urban demand for farm fresh products in Northern Virginia. A marketing promotion specialist has been assigned to assist farmers attempting to market directly to consumers. This specialist concentrates on organizing farmers into associations and then assisting these groups in improving their marketing opportunities.
The Texas program is also unique in that it not only promotes existing products but is tied to a program to provide capital for creation of value-added products.
Virginia Direct Marketing
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