Agriculture
Orange County Economic Development is dedicated to encouraging the establishment of new business while providing for the growth of existing industries, including agricultural enterprises.
Agriculture is a vital part of the economy and quality of life in Orange County. In 2002, a new Agricultural Economic Development Coordinator staff position was created. This position was developed to initiate and assist with efforts to create the continuation and expansion of agricultural businesses within Orange County for the benefit of all its residents.
For additional information: Orange County Farms.
The Piedmont Food and Ag Processing Center (PFAP) is a food business incubator that will allow food entrepreneurs and farmers to produce value-added foods and farm products for wholesale and retail markets. This value-added, shared-use, commercial food production and processing facility will allow clients to lease commercial kitchen space and vegetable / fruit processing facilities by the hour to produce value-added food products for commercial distribution. Freezer and refrigerated space, as well as entrepreneur offices will also be available for lease. Initial proposed programming includes training workshops on beginning and building food businesses.
For additional information: Piedmont Food & Ag Processing Center
Piedmont Grown is a certification program for food and agricultural products grown, raised, or made on farms in the North Carolina Piedmont. Displayed with food and farm products, the Piedmont Grown label readily identifies local agricultural products and helps consumers make informed buying choices that will benefit the farms of the North Carolina Piedmont and our local economy.
For additional information: Piedmont Grown