Researchers will use mathematical modeling to develop analytical tools that enhance supply chain planning and engage with growers to help them effectively use these tools. This project creates a roadmap for small growers to successfully compete in emerging markets such as direct-to-consumer produce channels led by Amazon Fresh, Instacart and Walmart Grocery, among others.
“I am excited to accept this grant on behalf of the research teams at Arizona State University, New Mexico State University and the several small businesses and grassroot organizations we are working with on this effort,” says Dr. Jesus Rene Villalobos, the project lead and an associate professor of industrial engineering in ASU’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. “With this funding from the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research, we have the opportunity to advance the state of the art in logistics coordination tools to help growers efficiently reach their customers, provide small growers with the resources to reach the best markets with the least waste and create a roadmap for small growers to use market and logistics analytics to avail themselves to direct-to-consumer produce channels.”
Project participants include Local First Arizona, Stern Produce, Duncan Family Farms, New Mexico University, La Montanita Cooperative, Sol y Tierra Cooperative and New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service. Researchers will provide training and education to effectively employ supply chain planning tools.
FFAR’s Seeding Solutions grant program is an open call for bold ideas that address a pressing food and agriculture issues in one of the Foundation’s Challenge Areas. This research supports FFAR’s 2018 Making My Plate Your Plate Challenge Area, currently the Urban Food Systems Challenge Area. FFAR’s work in this area supports innovative, systems-level approaches aimed at reducing food and nutritional insecurity.
###
Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research
The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) builds public-private partnerships to fund bold research addressing big food and agriculture challenges. FFAR was established in the 2014 Farm Bill to increase public agriculture research investments, fill knowledge gaps and complement USDA’s research agenda. FFAR’s model matches federal funding from Congress with private funding, delivering a powerful return on taxpayer investment. Through collaboration and partnerships, FFAR advances actionable science benefiting farmers, consumers and the environment.
Connect: @FoundationFAR | @RockTalking
Contact: Colleen Klemczewski, 703-204-2605, cklemczewski@foundationfar.org