Indiana Grown reached a new milestone with 1,000 members joining the initiative since its July 2015 launch, according to Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Since its inception, the goal of the statewide agriculture initiative has been to help consumers more easily identify and purchase products grown, raised, produced and processed in Indiana.
“Reaching 1,000 members is cause for celebration and a testament to our agricultural strength and diversity,” Crouch said. “Indiana Grown has helped thousands of Hoosiers connect with consumers and find new markets for their products, and we celebrate the initiative’s success.”
Now approaching its third year, Indiana Grown has members in nearly every county in Indiana and adds an average of one member each day. Members’ products can be found in grocery stores, farmers markets and in most community retail locations, which consumers can identify by looking for the Indiana Grown logo or by visiting www.IndianaGrown.org.
“By purchasing Indiana Grown products, Hoosiers are keeping dollars and food close to home, building sustainable communities and preserving Indiana’s agricultural heritage,” said Bruce Kettler, Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director. “This milestone gives Hoosiers even more reason to support the Indiana Grown initiative.”
Indiana Grown is administered by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture in partnership with the lieutenant governor’s office. Last year’s budget bill, for the first time, included funding for Indiana Grown, which is being used to raise awareness about the initiative and create growth opportunities for its members, among other priorities.
“With these resources, Indiana Grown is reaching more consumers and telling the story of its members and Indiana agriculture more effectively,” Crouch said. “Hoosiers want to buy local, and Indiana Grown continues to create an avenue to make that possible.”
To learn more about Indiana Grown, or find a member close to you, visit www.IndianaGrown.org. Those interested in joining the initiative can fill out a free application online.