By Blake Jackson
In Southwest Missouri, two family-owned agricultural businesses have built a successful local food partnership with support from the University of Missouri Extension. What started as separate business goals eventually came together through the guidance of agriculture business specialist Jennifer Lutes, creating new opportunities for both farms and their communities.
Lutes began working with Udderly Divine Creamery two years ago when the family business was selling raw goat milk and planning to establish a licensed Grade A dairy and processing facility. While developing business plans with her assistance, the company also pursued financing opportunities.
Those efforts helped secure the funding needed to build and equip the dairy facility, allowing the business to expand production and develop a growing line of dairy products.
At the same time, Lutes was assisting Dizzy Donkey Produce and More as it transformed an aging dairy barn into a community produce market focused on supporting local farmers and food producers. Recognizing the potential benefits for both businesses, she introduced the two owners.
“MU Extension — and Jennifer in particular — made a tremendous impact on our business journey,” said Valentina Houser, Owner of Dizzy Donkey Produce and More. “As first-time business owners, there are countless aspects of running a business that are new and often overlooked, so Jennifer’s guidance, support and feedback were incredibly valuable throughout the process.”
Today, milk, ice cream, cheese curds, chevre, and drinkable yogurt from Udderly Divine Creamery are sold at Dizzy Donkey Produce and More, creating a locally sourced supply chain within Southwest Missouri.
“This partnership represents more than shared shelf space — it represents a shift in rural entrepreneurship and a shared commitment to strengthening rural Missouri,” said Cortney Matthews, Owner of Udderly Divine Creamery.
Lutes said helping entrepreneurs grow is one of the most rewarding aspects of her work. “I really enjoy watching people grow and develop new skills and confidence and knowing that I had a hand in their journey to success,” said Lutes. “I get to be the coach and the cheerleader for these businesses and best part is celebrating their success with them!”
“We will always be grateful for her introduction to Udderly Divine Creamery,” Houser said. “What started as a simple connection quickly grew into a wonderful partnership between two local small businesses, and it has been truly meaningful for us.”
“Through collaboration between Udderly Divine Creamery, Dizzy Donkey Produce and More and MU Extension, we are creating a model where education, entrepreneurship and local agriculture work hand in hand,” Matthews said.
“Together, we are helping family farms grow, supporting small businesses, expanding consumer access to local food and building stronger, more resilient communities for generations to come.”
Photo Credit: getty-images-eric-ferguson
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables