Finding funding for a farm or food business can be one of the biggest barriers to turning ideas into reality. To help address that challenge, the West Central Minnesota Food Council, in partnership with Mezclada, is launching Funding Forward: Practical AI for Farmers and Food Businesses, a free interactive workshop designed to help participants find funding opportunities, better understand grant eligibility, and explore practical artificial intelligence (AI) tools that save time.

The workshop will take place on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 9–11 a.m. in the Otter Tail Room (County Board Chambers) at the Government Services Center, 500 W. Fir Avenue, Fergus Falls.

Unlike traditional technology trainings, Funding Forward focuses on solving real-world challenges faced by farmers and food businesses. Participants will learn practical strategies for identifying funding opportunities, evaluating eligibility requirements before investing valuable time, and using free AI tools to organize information and strengthen grant applications.

“Many producers know funding opportunities exist, but don’t always know where to begin,” said Emily Reno, founder of Mezclada and workshop facilitator. “Our goal is to make the process feel approachable. Participants don’t need prior grant writing or AI experience—just curiosity and a willingness to learn.”

The workshop includes live demonstrations, practical examples, collaborative discussion, and opportunities to connect with farmers, food entrepreneurs, and agricultural support professionals from across west central Minnesota.

Participants are encouraged to bring a project idea they are interested in pursuing. Those with laptops are welcome to bring them for optional interactive activities, though they are not required.

The workshop is free to attend, but advance registration is required as seating is limited.

To register, visit: www.mnfoodcouncil.org/events-1/funding-forward

For additional information, visit: www.mnfoodcouncil.org/

For questions, please contact Jason Bergstrand: Jason.Bergstrand@claycountymn.gov or (701) 306-5280

About the West Central Minnesota Food Council

The West Central Minnesota Food Council brings together farmers, food businesses, nonprofits, educators, public agencies, and community members to strengthen the regional food system through collaboration, education, and community-led action.

About Mezclada

Mezclada is an education and consulting company dedicated to helping farmers, food businesses, nonprofits, and rural communities build stronger futures through grant development, strategic planning, storytelling, and practical education.