Community Resources

Have resources in your community that we should list? Contact Kirsten Ringen at kirsten@foodnw.org

Portland, OR Area

Micro Mercantes – Hacienda CDC 

Business development for low income food entrepreneurs

• A “hotline” for people just starting a food business that functions as a great, live Q&A. It is 971-280-3825 or micromercantes@haciendacdc.org. 
• Evening orientation that explores entrepreneurship and owning a food business.
• Two week (6 evenings) food business boot camp that introduces entrepreneurs to resources such as New Seasons buyers, farmers market managers, food cart owners, caterers, health inspectors, insurance agents, marketing and more.
• IDAs – or matched savings accounts – to help buy things for their business.
• Monthly lending circle paired with financial education.
• Affordable commissary kitchen for rent

Website:  http://www.micromercantes.com/

PSU - Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems

The Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems at Portland State University offers students the opportunity to explore the complex issues and relationships between food, people, and society. The program draws on the expertise of faculty from departments across the University), providing an interdisciplinary understanding of the issues, perspectives, strategies, and solutions involved in creating sustainable food systems.

Website: http://www.pdx.edu/food-certificate/ 
Email for more information: Megan Horst