Community-based Marketing with the World Wide Web

1997 Annual Report for FNC97-194

Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 1997: $9,992.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/1998
Region: North Central
State: Minnesota
Project Coordinator:

Community-based Marketing with the World Wide Web

Summary

Creating product awareness and connecting with consumers is vital to direct marketing of farm proudcts. The Internet is one tool that can be utilized in the overall marketing scheme.

Objectives: To form a study group of five local proudcer to research and establih a website to market meats, grains, fruits and vetables. To use local media and direct mail to publicize the site and increase local demand with a kiosk in a local main street store. Monthly study circles were set up to share information and make decisions. A computer consultant was hired to assist in with the kiosk and website, and a local coffee house was chosen for the kiosk. Local news media and flyers were used to advertise.

Results: Exposure to the community via the kiosk has been excellent. Internet contacts have been less successful, however, because the site has only been in existence for a short while.