Author Bio

Caroline Patrick serves as the Indiana Grown Program Director within the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. She leads statewide efforts to connect Hoosier producers with consumers, institutions, and markets, advancing local food systems through strategic outreach, measurable impact, and strong partnerships. Presentation: Cultivating Opportunity: Indiana Grown Program Advantages: Indiana Grown membership is more than a logo it’s a platform for visibility, credibility, and connection. This session will explore the full range of program advantages available to members, from marketing support and promotional campaigns to networking opportunities and institutional procurement connections. Attendees will learn how Indiana Grown strengthens local food systems by linking producers with consumers and buyers, while also elevating brand recognition across the state. This session will demonstrate how Indiana Grown cultivates opportunity and builds resilient, market-ready pathways for Indiana products.