Business Development Division

The Business Development Division works with Tennessee farmers, foresters, and agribusinesses to build rural economies and increase operation income. Diverse growth and development activities provide opportunities, incentives, and promotions that reach consumers through a variety of methods and platforms. 

The division's staff pursue new industries and expansion of existing agricultural and forestry businesses. To facilitate this growth, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture partners with agencies ranging from local governments and regional retail chains, to USDA Rural Development, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and national and international trade organizations like the Southern United States Trade Association and the Foreign Agricultural Service.

Business Development Consultants focus on specialty crops, processed foods, the equine industry, viticulture, horticulture, livestock, hay, fruits and vegetables, and farm-direct marketing. Tennessee agribusinesses are connected to local and world markets through trade missions, where targeted buyers are brought to Tennessee to see products and forge business relationships with producers.

Pick Tennessee Products is the primary customer-facing promotional program offered by the Department, with more than 2,500 farm and farm-direct businesses offering approximately 10,000 different products.

Click here to view our Business Development Division brochure.