Have you ever fallen in love with a great local product? Something that’s just the right about of quirky and cool? Maybe it’s a distinctive regional flavor that catches your fancy, or maybe it’s the quality that distinguishes any truly artisan creation, from bubble bath to baked goods.
If you’ve felt this kind of love, then you’ve probably felt the attendant fears: Will they make it? It’s a big, competitive world out there. How long will this sassy little start-up be around?
At Whole Foods Market®, our dedicated foragers search high and low to discover delicious and unusual products that are grown, raised or crafted locally. But we don’t just find great local producers, we help them thrive!
Through our Local Producer Loan Program, we’ve provided more than $15 million in low-interest loans to outstanding local farmers and artisans. In addition to funds, Whole Foods Market provides mentoring for small businesses. Recipients also become part of a supportive community of like-minded entrepreneurs who share experiences and expertise.
Many of our loan recipients have become so popular and successful that they’ve been able to expand into other regions. To help you get a flavor, here are just a few of the Local Producer Loan Program products that can now be found nationwide:
The artisans of Saint Benoit Creamery opens in a new tab produce French-style organic yogurt in Sonoma County, California.
Born in Brooklyn, Susty Party opens in a new tab makes compostable party-ware from responsibly harvested materials and creates jobs for the blind.
The Seaweed Bath Co. opens in a new tab hand-harvests seaweed from the coast of Maine and Nova Scotia.
CORE Meal opens in a new tabbars are made from raw ingredients in Oakland, California.
Red Jacket opens in a new tabproduces high-quality fruit and cold-pressed juice on a family farm in upstate New York.
Tiny But Mighty Popcorn opens in a new tab is grown from heirloom seed that was rediscovered on an Iowa family farm.
Headquartered in Portland, Oregon,Heidi Ho opens in a new tab produces delicious plant-based vegan cheeses from organic ingredients.
Look for the Local Producer Loan Recipient seal of approval to find unique and exciting products in our stores, or search our directory opens in a new tab to discover exciting local products by state.
Do you have a favorite local product? Share your discovery in the comments.
