Liz Buxton, Director of Operations
Western MA Food Processing Center
https://fccdc.org/food_process_center/
Tell us about your organization:
The Western MA Food Processing Center is a program of the Franklin County Community Development Corporation. We empower food entrepreneurs and local farmers by providing essential services like recipe prototyping, co-packing, and value-added product development. Since 2001, we’ve fostered economic growth through entrepreneurship and sustainable agriculture, helping bring innovative food products to market while supporting local communities. Let’s create something delicious together!
What do you love about your job?
As Director of Operations at the Western MA Food Processing Center, I love empowering entrepreneurs and farmers to turn their culinary visions into reality. Collaborating with passionate creators, fostering local agriculture, and seeing innovative products come to life energizes me every day. It’s rewarding to support our community’s growth and success!
I love having the opportunity to nurture creativity and innovation in the food industry. I’m driven by a passion for supporting local entrepreneurs, fostering sustainable agriculture, and witnessing the impact of our work on the community’s economic growth and culinary landscape.
Tell us a fun fact about the Western MA Food Processing Center that might surprise folks.
Our kitchen has three 125-gallon kettles that we use to make a wide variety of bottled sauces, condiments and beverages for food businesses around New England. One of our favorite things to make is the hot chocolate for the annual Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage! We make it at 3am and transport it down to the finish line the morning of!
When you’re not working, where in Franklin County do you like to spend your time?
I can be found exploring Franklin County on my motorcycle, exploring back roads, and scouting out beautiful scenic vistas.
Why do you value our Franklin County Chamber community?
As the Director of Operations at the Western MA Food Processing Center, I value our Franklin County Chamber membership for its ability to enhance our credibility and visibility in the community. The Chamber’s referrals connect us with potential partners and customers, fostering valuable collaborations that strengthen local relationships. We can effectively promote our services and engage with a wider audience through the Chamber's extensive marketing resources, including website listings and newsletters. Networking events provide opportunities to connect with other businesses and community leaders, driving innovation and support for local agriculture. Overall, the Chamber is an essential ally in advocating for our mission and promoting the local food economy.
What else should we know?
If you’re curious about working with us, please reach out! We’d be happy to explore your food business idea with you. https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/FranklinCountyCommunityDevelo/contact1-1.html