Membership Benefits
As a member of MGFPA you’re entitled to a variety of “member only” benefits and programs which can help save money, allow you to focus on running your business and ensure you stay competitive. For more information see below or connect with us via email at info@mgfpa.org.
Government Relations
The MGFPA is continuously monitoring not only the work of the Maine Legislature but also that of Congress and state and federal agencies.
We build coalitions to advance MGFPA’s interests. MGFPA works closely with local chambers of commerce, downtown, and Main Street organizations, national trade groups, and other interested parties to strategize on policy initiatives.
MGFPA serves as a liaison between you, your businesses, and the state. We assist members confronted with their own government relations issues. Have questions? Let MGFPA ask the questions on your behalf. We work closely with the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Maine Department of Labor, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, Maine Revenue Services, Maine’s DHHS for SNAP and WIC related issues, Maine Office of Marijuana Policy, and the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development.
Communications
Legislative E-Mail Updates – Watch for our post-election coverage and legislative highlights starting up in January and issued weekly throughout the legislative session. Additional details may also be found on the Legislative Watch section of the website.
“I have to say that I am very impressed with the wealth of knowledge and timeliness that comes from MGFPA. Seriously, I always end up scanning emails to find if their info is worth taking solid time to read, review, come back to it later ——- but I am stopping to read yours in full right away. Important and timely info. Thanks so much for that! Wish we had joined earlier!” – Nancy O’Brien, FIORE Artisan Olive Oils And VInegars
Monthly E-Newsletter – Throughout the year, MGFPA members receive timely, concise industry
information from state partners and food-sector colleagues.
Newsletter – Members receive an electronic Legislative Recap mailed out at the end of the year’s
legislative session.
Social Media – Be sure to stay up-to-date daily by following MGFPA on Facebook ,Twitter, and Instagram.
Networking & Education
Food for Thought Forum – The forum draws MGFPA members, key state and federal policy makers, and regulatory personnel for a day of information exchange and business-to-business networking. Join us for this brown-bag lunch featuring Maine food products, educational session and cocktail reception.
Meet & Greets – Join us for a night of fun and networking. Casual and lighthearted our Meet & Greets allow members and prospective members to mingle, sample products and chat business. Connections are made, problems solved and partnerships formed. Dates to be announced.
Annual Business Summit – Maine’s premier B2B Marketplace serves as the key event in food business collaboration. The Summit is where food and beverage manufacturers large and small showcase their products and buyers meet to find their next bestseller. It has become a not-to-be missed event for those involved in Maine’s dynamic food industry who want to exchange ideas, share business knowledge, and cultivate leads. October date to be announced.
“As a small business start-up, it is sometimes hard, but critical to reach out for help. MGFPA affords that opportunity. My business would never have taken off if it were not for my friend Kate, introducing me to her friend Lucy, who was also challenged by the high cost of Gluten-Free OATS! We worked together on purchasing pallets, and reduced our costs more than 50%! Participating in MGFPA Annual Food for Thought meeting also gave my business exposure to Retail Clients, which secured my product being offered at Bow Street Market! I find that members of the association have a willingness to work well together to help each other grow, and to ensure a strong Specialty Food Business in Maine for all!” – Lisa G., Owner, OATS Any Time.
Market Ready Program – Is your business “Market Ready”? MGFPA members attend free technical sessions designed to prepare food producers for entry into customer markets. Through a five-track program, businesses learn about food safety and quality requirements, maximize efficiencies in manufacturing operations and scaling up , in the ins and outs of distribution, effective sales and marketing programs, and financial management systems.
Maine Harvest Festival Booth – Each year, MGFPA offers complimentary booth space to one eligible producer-level member at the annual Maine Harvest Festival. The Maine Harvest Festival is held at the 35,000 square foot Bangor Cross Insurance Center and hosts more than 8,000 engaged shoppers, who favor and value buying local. Please email MGFPA to learn more if you’re interested in exhibiting.
Scholarship
MGFPA Scholarship – $1,000 is awarded each year to three students who have successfully completed requirements for graduation from an accredited high school, is a resident of the State of Maine, and has been accepted by a college or university. Winners must enroll as full-time students in the fall of the year the scholarship is awarded.
The Maine Grocers & Food Producers Association Scholarship Program is eligible for high school seniors, college freshman, sophomores and juniors who are: Children of full-time or part-time employees of companies which are MGFPA members (the employee must have been employed for at least six months at time of application). OR Part-time student employees of companies which are MGFPA members (the student must have been employed for at least six months prior to application).
