MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) — Consumers who want to support local food and farms now have another way in addition to buying locally produced veggies, meats and cheeses. The so-called “Slow Money” network links entrepreneurs with investors who want to support a stronger local food system.
Since 2010, Slow Money networks and investment clubs around the country, including in Maine, Massachusetts, California, North Carolina, and in cities like Boston and New York, have made a total of $38 million in investments in 350 small food enterprises. Vermont and its vibrant local foods scene is about to launch its own network on Sept. 16.
Many of the Slow Money chapters organize events where food entrepreneurs put on presentations to investors. Then the interested investors deal directly with the businesses.
