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Institute for Food and Agriculture

Our Priorities

The Fresno State Institute for Food and Agriculture (IFA) plays a vital role in encouraging growth and innovation in California's food and agriculture industry in an ever-changing and increasingly competitive world. The independent facility conducts research and training in food and fiber systems as well as market and policy analysis. Its partnerships with industry and the Jordan College’s nationally-recognized water, viticulture and enology research centers and academic departments offer a unique combination of expertise, services, outreach and resources. A key component of its reorganization from the formerly-known Center for Agribusiness is its industry advisory board of state agricultural leaders that help define important issues, collaborative research opportunities and industry support and partnership ideas.

Areas of Expertise

IFA activities address all major components of agriculture and agribusiness, including production agriculture, processing, distributing and marketing, management, and policy-making. Research and training efforts focus on these specific issues:

  • International trade and export marketing
  • Water and energy management
  • Farm labor and personnel management
  • Agricultural safety education and training
  • Farm labor research
  • Farm management and accounting methods
  • Computer applications in agribusiness
  • New agribusiness opportunities

Our Resources

IFA works closely with faculty from the Department of Agricultural Economics to conduct many of its activities. The faculty's diverse background of expertise and industry contact enables them to successfully support research and training programs. IFA conferences and workshops are typically co-sponsored by at least one industry organization, and instructors are often from industry or are professional trainers.

How We Can Help

IFA has become nationally known for its applied research and educational information programs for agricultural business. We sponsor training sessions, workshops and forums designed specifically for the agricultural community.