F3 Local
Overview
F3 Local is a regional initiative led by UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) to build a more inclusive and resilient food economy in California's San Joaquin Valley. It connects small-scale farmers and food entrepreneurs with practical tools, training and markets. Farmers in Fresno, Kings, Madera, Merced and Tulare counties can borrow specialized equipment from its lending library at UC ANR's Kearney Agricultural Research and Extension Center, get one-on-one guidance on affordable technology, and trial new practices with researchers through SF-ADAPT. Food entrepreneurs, especially mobile food vendors and early-stage businesses, can get training and advising on licensing, permits, food safety, marketing and distribution. Farmers and food businesses can contact the F3 Local team in Fresno to find the right support.
What they do
Small-farm technology access
Lends scale-appropriate farm equipment, with training, so small farms can try technology before buying, and runs a competition that awards cash prizes for practical hardware, software, and social solutions for small farms.
On-farm research and trials
Connects small and medium-scale farmers with UC researchers and technology developers to co-create tools and run field trials and demonstrations, and offers hands-on training on irrigation, soil health, and crop management.
Food business development
Trains and coaches aspiring and growing food entrepreneurs, especially mobile food vendors and cottage food operators, on business planning, licensing, permits, food safety, product development, and funding.
Local food markets
Raises the visibility of local food businesses through regional branding and promotion, and aggregates products from small farms and food businesses for coordinated distribution to schools, hospitals, and grocers.
Programs and services
Locations
- Program address F3 Local, 550 E Shaw Ave., Suite 210-B, Fresno, CA 93710, United States