Food Hub Feasibility Study: Pilot Project Update Presentation

The Fresh Food Pathways Project: Food Hub Feasibility Study continues to explore how a localized food hub could create new market opportunities for farmers and food producers, expand institutional purchasing, and increase access to locally grown food throughout Alachua County.

As part of the study, a 10-month pilot project with Frog Song Farms is using local food aggregation and distribution to collect data to help inform the long-term feasibility of a county-based food hub.

Pilot Project Progress
Since launching in March 2026, the pilot has focused on building producer relationships, exploring new markets, and testing local food aggregation and distribution strategies.

Producer Engagement

• Hosted three information sessions introducing local growers, food producers, and buyers to the pilot.
• Began supporting value-added producers through shared commercial kitchen access.
• Four Alachua County farms have recently joined the food hub network, including Bellevue Gardens (Archer), Deep Spring Farm (Alachua), Innova Farms (Newberry), and Rainbow Star Farm (Newberry).

Market Development

• Engaging with Chartwells Higher Education at the University of Florida to explore UF Dining purchasing opportunities.
• Coordinating with the Alachua County Public Schools Farm to School Program to explore partnership opportunities for the upcoming school year.

Project Update Presentation
The Alachua County Board of County Commissioners and City of Gainesville Commission recently received an update on the project, including pilot progress and upcoming study deliverables.

Watch the June 8, 2026 presentation HERE.
(Food Hub Pilot Project Update begins at 2:21:50)

Photo Courtesy of Frog Song Farms