The Program:

This two-day program is designed to share information about and strategies behind ASAP’s innovative approach to creating environments where local food economies thrive.

On Day One: Learn proven steps from ASAP and other community leaders and organizers through guided instruction, panel discussions, and networking.
On Day Two: Visit local farms and businesses that illustrate how entrepreneurs are successfully accessing local markets.

What You’ll Do:

- Learn from ASAP and other leading innovators through structured instruction.
- Examine specific aspects of the local food market and learn about initiatives that have helped farmers and local food entrepreneurs experience success.
- Interact with farmers, economic development specialists, farmers market planners, and community organizers.
- Apply what you have learned to your own work and area.

What You’ll Take Home:

- A solid understanding of and talking points on the benefits of developing your local food economy.
- Knowledge of the key resources, community assets, and partners needed in order to undertake local food initiatives.
- Resources to use in your community.
- Models for successful entrepreneurship.

Cost and Registration:

The program runs from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. on October 13th and 14th, and ASAP provides lunch both days. The cost of attendance is $250 for early registration (by September 10) and $300 for late registration (by September 30).

Click here to fill out a registration form, pay online, and find more information about sign-up. If you have questions about the event or registration process, contact administrator Allison Perrett. 

Directions and Accommodations:

This year's Local Food Institute will take place in and around Asheville. Day one will be held downtown at Jubilee! Community. A central meeting location at the start of day two will be announced shortly. 

Here are several bed and breakfasts in Buncombe County that serve up local food:

Duckett House Inn, 828-622-7621
Green Mountain Bed and Breakfast, 828-633-0232
Hawk and Ivy Bed and Breakfast, 828-626-3486
Inn on Main Street B&B, 828-645-4935
Mountain Magnolia Inn, 828-622-3543

You can find additional options in the Bed and Breakfasts and Farm Lodging sections of ASAP's Local Food Guide. Note: The above B&Bs are in Buncombe County and are of various distances from Asheville. Be sure to phone them before booking to determine your driving time to the Institute.

You can also search area accommodations on the Asheville Convention and Visitors Bureau's website. Their "Personal Room Finder" allows you to search by location, amenities, and special deals.