FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 20, 2026) – Kentucky Proud®, the official marketing program of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, is offering a one-day workshop for Kentucky producers to help them develop a plan to market agricultural products to a wider audience. Kentucky Proud is hosting the Retail Readiness workshop in partnership with the Kentucky Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (KCARD) and the University of Kentucky’s MarketReady Producer Training Program.

“This one-day workshop for Kentucky agriculture producers is invaluable,” Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell said. “Creating pathways to help Kentucky producers develop a plan for a larger share of the market benefits the producer and our state because agriculture is economic development.”

The workshop, set for 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. EDT March 31 in Lexington, will provide an overview of marketing trends and funding opportunities, peer-to-peer panels, discussions, product reviews, and advice from a variety of local retailers as well as hands-on workshops for marketing planning.

The workshop was developed with the emerging producer in mind, including those who have success in direct sales and are considering a move into retail sales or wholesale opportunities. 

Attendees can hear from other agricultural producers who are successfully selling in the retail space and support their products with marketing plans. Attendees will learn from the retail community and discover what types of local products are best matched for placement, as well as the process for new vendors and safety certifications. Up to three products may be submitted to be reviewed anonymously by mass retailers, specialty retailers, and farm retail markets for coaching and feedback on the overall marketability and attractiveness of the items. 

Participants will leave the workshop with marketing support and information that can guide their journey.

The $15 workshop at the Fayette County Extension Office, 1140 Harry Sykes Way, Lexington, includes lunch. Digital registration can be accessed in the following link:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/retail-readiness-marketing-workshop-registration-1980640032655?aff=oddtdtcreator.