From apples to zucchini, Georgia produces a wide range of agricultural commodities. Aside from the state’s main row crops such as cotton, peanuts, corn, and soybeans, most other commodities are sold and consumed in their fresh form. Through innovation, Georgia’s businesses and universities are discovering new and revolutionary ways to use these commodities to generate additional revenue sources and create jobs in the agriculture sector.

Outstanding resources such as the Food Product Innovation Center housed at the University of Georgia’s Griffin Campus can assist producers and entrepreneurs in innovating and perfecting new products. The center has worked to improve drying technologies for Georgia’s blueberries, created frozen desserts using Georgia fruits and helped improve a grain-based milk drink. The Center of Innovation works with FoodPIC to foster short-term partnerships for innovation.

The Center of Innovation helps Georgia’s businesses connect to these resources and capitalize on the challenges and opportunities in agriculture with the following services.

• Assists businesses of all sizes in overcoming internal or external challenges and pursuing new opportunities.
• Provides technical assistance by connecting businesses to research, industry information, and resources such as business loans and grants.