MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Entrepreneurs who dream of creating and manufacturing food products can learn how to make those dreams reality at a day-long conference offered in Meridian in November.

The Mississippi State University Extension Service is sponsoring Food as a Business Nov. 17 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kahlmus Auditorium on the MSU-Meridian campus. Registration for the conference is $35 and includes lunch, breaks and conference materials. Speakers represent the Extension Service, the Mississippi Development Authority, and retail and manufacturing industries.

"We designed this conference for anyone who has ever dreamed of owning and operating their own food processing business," said Anna Hood, associate Extension professor. "Participants can experience firsthand what is required for basic start-up in a food manufacturing or wholesale distribution business."

The conference brings together experts on a variety of topics related to food as a business. Presentations focus on customer and retailer relations, legal issues, labeling, marketing, sales, profits and costs. The day ends with a question-and-answer session where participants can interact with the experts.

Registration for the Nov. 17 event closes Nov. 10. For more information, contact Ann Sansing at (662) 325-2160 or asansing@ext.msstate.edu.