Economic Development
UGA Extension is your partner in local economic development. An investment in UGA Extension is an investment in economic development.
Supporting local markets
Agents across the state assist with markets for farmers and other local producers to sell their goods. These markets give citizens the opportunity to purchase local foods and goods for their families. Extension home food preservation courses provide up-to-date information on how to preserve garden harvests safely. Visit localfarmersmarkets.org to find a farmer's market near you.
Expanding opportunities
Thousands of expertly trained volunteers give Georgia communities increased capacity for supporting business and citizen needs. Master Goat, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist programs are just a few of the many specialized training programs Extension offers to support agriculture enterprises.
Growing county farms
Each year UGA Extension conducts hundreds of local meetings and field day demonstrations for farmers. Crop improvement research in yields, disease resistance and chemical applications saves time and money. New crops like pomegranates, olives, grapes and bananas bring development opportunities to Georgia communities.
Innovating technology
Extension resources abound on the Internet. Online publications, iPhone apps, digital diagnostics and other technology resources help communities and individuals save money and get the support they need.
Building stronger families
Financial literacy classes for children and adults, information on avoiding health risks and proper nutrition training builds stronger families. Family and Consumer Science agents educate citizens with a wide body of research-based knowledge on food, finances, housing and family issues.
Supporting entrepreneurship
The UGA Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development helps new businesses chart their path. Economic feasibility studies shed light on business realities. Georgia Marketmaker helps new businesses find their target audience. The Flavor of Georgia food product contest casts a spotlight on new food products and showcases the state’s diverse agriculture sector.
Developing young leaders
Georgia 4-H provides educational youth development programs for more than 170,000 young people across the state. Through project achievement, Georgia 4-H’ers perform community service, learn to be organized and hone their public speaking skills. 4-H programs also teach students life skills like leadership, citizenship, communication and decision-making.
Conserving local resources
Partnering with UGA Extension saves counties money. Extension agents and specialists work with counties to assist with landscaping for public green spaces, local production of biodiesel, water conservation, pesticide training, radon education, green living and much more.
The UGA Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development has economists and business specialists with the skills and knowledge to add value to Georgia's agricultural economy. It's faculty and staff coordinate the annual Farm Gate Value Report, Georgia Ag Forecast and Flavor of Georgia Food Product Contest.