The Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) will host six Regional Agribusiness Development Workshops in 2016. The workshops will provide Kansas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses with resources, and current business development and organizational contacts to assist with startups or expansions.

The KDA Division of Agriculture Marketing received a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Business Development Grant to help fund these state-wide workshops. Dates and locations of the workshops include:

• January 28, 2016 in Leavenworth, Kan.
• February 11, 2016 in Belleville, Kan.
• February 18, 2016 in Iola, Kan.
• March 3, 2016 in Dodge City, Kan.
• March 10, 2016 in Colby, Kan.
• March 24, 2016 in Marion, Kan.

“Agriculture accounts for 43 percent of the state’s economy and 12 percent of the state’s workforce,” said Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Jackie McClaskey. “These workshops will create an environment that facilitates growth and awareness about agricultural opportunities in Kansas.” McClaskey said with more information and education, Kansas’ small and rural agri-businesses will be better prepared to serve as economic engines for rural Kansas.

Established in the 2014 Farm Bill, USDA’s Rural Business Development Grant is a program intended to help with technical assistance, training and other activities to allow small businesses in rural areas to expand.

Featured speakers at the event will include Kansas Department of Agriculture, Kansas Department of Commerce, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, USDA Rural Development, Network Kansas, Small Business Development Center, local Chamber of Commerce, Main Street, economic development and E-Community representatives.

KDA is committed to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy. These workshops will provide support and assistance to help make Kansas businesses more successful.

For additional information, contact Robin Blume, KDA education and events coordinator, robin.blume@kda.ks.gov.