MISSISSIPPI STATE – As the economy continues to present challenges, an upcoming workshop will help new food business owners learn how to battle the stiff odds and have a better chance to succeed.

“Food as a Business” is a day-long video conference Aug. 11 with satellite locations at Mississippi State University and in Biloxi, Raymond, Verona and Cleveland. The $40 registration fee covers breaks, lunch and conference materials, and must be received by July 31.

Topics to be covered include business plans, legal issues, marketing, Internet sales, food processing and labeling regulations, funding sources, and product costing and pricing. Speakers will address how to work with retailers and the “Make Mine Mississippi” program. During lunch, several speakers will tell of their experiences starting food processing businesses.

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

For additional information and a registration form, go online to http://www.fsnhp.msstate.edu/ .

The workshop is sponsored by MSU’s Extension Service, the Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion, and the Small Business Development Center. Also taking part as a sponsor is the Women’s Center for Entrepreneurship with Mississippi University for Women.