Indiana Commercial Mushroom Growers Association Formation

Commodities

Practices

Commercial mushroom growers in the state of Indiana do not have a professional association for representation and education.  The state only offers wild forage mushroom certification through the Department of Natural Resources for individuals.   Indiana Grown has over 40 mushroom businesses listed in their online directory and this does not include everyone.  The emerging mushroom industry is well suited for urban and beginning farmers who need lower startup costs or have limited space.  Education opportunities and access to resources is increasing but not easily accessible.  This growing segment of agriculture would benefit economically if their crops and industry were represented by an association at the state level. 

This project will begin by creating a website as a point of contact and educational resource.  Website visitors will be asked to subscribe to an email list and receive scheduled updates for 18 months.  Team members will create website content using GoDaddy bundled services including email content for at least six or more subscriber updates.  Team members will conduct interviews with commercial mushroom growers in Indiana to determine their needs and interest in a professional growers association.   Interviews will be conducted through an online form, by phone and in person at events.  Interviews will identify key demographics like sales channels, urban and beginning growers of less than ten years.  Team members will plan and present at least two education programs about commercial mushroom businesses virtually or in person.   Partners will be targeted at local colleges, small business services and farm agencies for education programs.  Educational flyers will be designed and printed for distribution at events.  Team members will recruit potential board members for the association formation.   Board members will begin the process of writing an association business plan.  Three members will represent commercial mushroom growers at the Purdue Indiana Small Farm Conference with a tradeshow booth in March 2026.