April 2026
District Director Notes - Jay Harris
As we move into the growing season, the Cottonwood Extension District continues to focus on strengthening our local food system—supporting both producers and the communities they serve. Two upcoming opportunities highlight this work: a Farmer’s Market vendor training and the Food Business Start-Up Summit.
On May 12, we will host a training for local vendors on the Kansas Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (KSFMNP) and Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB). These programs play an important role in increasing access to fresh, locally grown foods while also supporting vendors. KSFMNP provides eligible seniors with vouchers to purchase fresh produce, while DUFB matches SNAP benefits spent at participating markets, effectively doubling purchasing power for fruits and vegetables.
For vendors, participation in these programs can expand customer reach and increase sales. For communities, they improve access to healthy foods and strengthen local economies. This training will help vendors understand program requirements, learn how to participate, and explore ways to successfully implement these opportunities during the market season.
Looking ahead, we are also excited to host the Food Business Start-Up Summit in Hays on June 9–10. This two-day, hands-on working retreat is designed for individuals interested in starting or growing a food-based business. Rather than traditional presentations, participants work directly with experts and peers to address real-world challenges such as licensing, financing, production, and marketing.
The summit is modeled after a successful statewide program and is limited to 25 businesses, allowing for meaningful interaction and personalized guidance. Participants are encouraged to attend as a team and will leave with a practical action plan tailored to their business.
Together, these efforts reflect the broader role of K-State Extension in supporting local food systems—from helping vendors succeed at the market to assisting entrepreneurs in launching and growing food businesses.
If you are a vendor, producer, or someone considering a food-based business, we encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities. Strengthening local food systems takes collaboration, and we are proud to support that work here in the Cottonwood District.
Supporting Local Food Systems and Entrepreneurs in the Cottonwood District