Investing in Local Food Economy
Slow Money Kentucky inspires grassroots/community-level investing, encouraging participation from community members who can invest in local, food-based and sustainable businesses. Started in 2013, the Kentucky chapter has created about $200,000 in economic impact around the state over the past three years.
Looking to invest locally? Consider these projects:
Ivor Chodkowski, Field Day Family Farm, is launching a brand of locally grown frozen vegetables and processed foods (hummus, pesto). He is reviving the brand name Grasshopper, the food distribution company he co-owned. He seeks $15,000 for six months of promotions/ communications and purchasing of packaging and labels.
Gelato Gilberto makes gelato using local, sustainably produced milk. Justin Gilberto wants to double the number of flavors offered and shelf space in current and future outlets. He needs $7,000 in loans.
Freedom Run Farm is a woman-owned and operated farm concentrating on pastured proteins; certified organic soy-free chicken and turkey; certified organic grass-fed lamb and beef. They seek $5,000 in loans to expand their chicken operation. The loan is to be repaid in six months.
While Slow Money Kentucky serves as the introduction of businesses and investors, the organization does not manage the loan relationship. The money changes hands directly between the business owner and investor, including all terms and conditions of the loan. The minimum amount recommended by Slow Money is $1,000. Typically, loans are filled by multiple investors.
For more information and to get involved, contact Larry Snyder.
A chance to invest in Veggie Bites
To help make eating your veggies more enjoyable, Jacob and Carolyn Gahn, creators of Sweetgrass Granola, are planning a new natural food product: EllieFinn’s Veggie Infused Snack Bites. Each serving will provide over 50% of a child’s daily vegetable requirement, and 20% of an adult’s. Flavors will include Chocolate Sun Butter, Strawberry Pomegranate and Apple Cinnamon. They have launched a Kickstarter campaign and hope to raise over $8,000 through pre-orders to fund the initial production run.
EllieFinn’s will be sweetened with organic fruit and made with vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free and paleo-friendly ingredients. The Kickstarter campaign runs through June 20. To learn more and/or support, visit their website.
