Aggregation
Aggregation is an opportunity for producers, especially small to medium farms, to develop a larger and more consistent market. Through aggregation, producers can collaborate with others to sell their products together.
The development of aggregation may look different based on community needs. It could come in many forms: a regional food hub or multi-farm CSAs, a co-ops or retail site, pooling single products for increased inventory, carpooling or shared transport of products to connect with a restaurant, retailer, or institution (such as nursing home, school, hospital).
Aggregation Exploration in South Dakota
In early 2023 the S.D. Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA), through a Specialty Crop Block Grant provided by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, coordinated regional meetings to explore the interest in aggregation.
Producers and other community stakeholders were able to discuss current opportunities and projects, possible aggregation models, and barriers to regional aggregation. Below are recordings, topics, and resources from these meetings, as well as specific statewide and regional opportunities that producers are invited to get involved with.
If interested in sharing an aggregation opportunity for producers on this site, please submit by click the button below. Contact SDSPA with questions.
Survey of Businesses and Institutional Buyers
S.D. Specialty Producers Association continues to collect responses for our buyer evaluation survey. The purpose of this survey is to gauge interest of businesses and institutions across the state in regards to purchasing specialty crops, value added products, and local foods. The survey includes questions about barriers and interest, purchasing power, and current markets.
Answers are welcome from chefs, florists, retail locations, business owners, wholesalers, distributors, and anyone currently or interested in purchasing from local producers.
Buyers Evaluation SurveySDSPA Resources
Aggregation Podcasts
Aggregation Resource Guide
Aggregation Business Model
Aggregation Video Playlist (YouTube)
Market Survey Reports
- Buyer Evaluation Survey Summary (Sept., 2024)
Food Safety Resources
Latest SDSPA Videos & Resources
For a complete listing of SDSPA videos, publications, podcasts and recommended resources visit our Resource Library.