The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is dedicated to enhancing Southern Virginia’s local food system by identifying and filling gaps that can hinder economic growth. The goal is to improve the regional food system by connecting producers and farmers with institutional buyers, food hubs and other purchasers.

  • While many farmers and producers would like to expand their reach, they often lack the resources to effectively market their goods.
  • Institutional buyers—including schools, hospitals and large employers—want to offer local produce, meat and dairy but can’t realistically manage individual supplier relationships.

By serving as a vital connector, IALR’s Value Chain initiative is helping diversify agribusiness, connect producers with buyers, and increase net farm output across the region.

Meet Our

Value Chain Coordinator

Mitchell Doss

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Office: 434.766.6611

This effort is supported by a grant from the Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission and a private donor. These resources enable IALR to streamline connections and strengthen the existing food network.

Connecting Producers to Markets

IALR’s Value Chain Coordinator focuses on bridging the gap between local producers and a range of potential buyers, ensuring that farmers receive fair price points and that larger organizations can efficiently source top-quality, locally grown products. By arranging meetups, facilitating introductions and leveraging modern software solutions, the goal is to boost farm income while keeping food dollars circulating within communities.

The following localities are currently being supported:

  • Bedford County
  • Brunswick County
  • Campbell County
  • Charlotte County
  • Danville
  • Franklin County
  • Halifax County
  • Henry County
  • Martinsville
  • Mecklenburg County
  • Patrick County
  • Pittsylvania County
  • Prince Edward County

Improving Local Food Systems

IALR’s Value Chain Coordinator collaborates with extension agents, nonprofits, food hubs and other partners to pinpoint logistical barriers and identify innovative distribution methods. By sharing best practices, hosting workshops and encouraging cross-sector dialogue, partners work to create a more resilient and vibrant food system.

The collaborative work supporting the value chain benefits producers, buyers and consumers alike.

The Value Chain initiative is part of IALR’s Applied Research division, which supports Virginia’s agriculture industry—the number one private industry in the Commonwealth—through analytical chemistry testing services, biotechnology research, and education and outreach from the Controlled Environment Agriculture Innovation Center.

Get Involved

Whether you grow, buy or simply enjoy local food, we invite you to join this evolving initiative. Explore our upcoming events and workshops, or reach out directly to discuss collaboration opportunities.

Together, we can strengthen Southern Virginia’s agricultural economy by identifying solutions and ensuring that fresh, local products are readily available to everyone who calls this region home.

Connect with our Value Chain Coordinator