About Cultivate

Empowering Local Food Enterprises: The Cultivate Local Journey

From Big League Experience to Local Food Revolution

With a rich history starting from a family farm to nationally distrubuted brands and local food retail our team at Cultivate Local Food Marketing brings an unparalleled depth of knowledge to the table. Our journey began in the bustling corridors of the "big guys," where we honed our skills and amassed years of invaluable experience. This extensive background now serves as the cornerstone of our mission: to deliver innovative, cost-efficient marketing solutions to local food businesses everywhere.

At the heart of our strategy lies a unique fusion of technical skills, creative ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to the local food movement. Our small team of specialists draws upon a broad spectrum of experiences within the food industry - from farming and CSA's, to retail and product development. This eclectic blend of backgrounds enables us to tackle challenges from multiple angles, fostering a culture of creative problem-solving in partnership with our clients.

The inception of Cultivate Local Food Marketing stems from a lifetime of connection to local food for our founder, Craig Sanders. Craig was raised on a family farm, where he helped tend a large garden, harvested sweet corn for the market, and learned about the ebb and flow of farm life. After college, he joined the sales and marketing team at Traders Point Creamery, an organic grass-fed dairy producer in Zionsville, Indiana. There, he contributed to the company's growth, enabling their products to be sold nationwide at retailers such as Whole Foods, Fresh Thyme, HEB, Natural Grocers, and more. Most recently, Craig owned and managed an independent grocery store that prominently featured local produce and food goods, achieving great success through marketing and social media channels. He also helped his wife run a flower shop that featured local and seasonal flowers prominently. Craig's passion for local food, coupled with his extensive industry experience, inspired him to establish Cultivate Local Food Marketing to assist other local food producers and retailers in achieving marketplace success.

Fostering Connections: Cultivate's Role in the Local Food Narrative

In the ever-evolving landscape of local food marketing, Cultivate strives to become a beacon of innovation and success. Our strategic approach is not merely about promoting your products; it's about weaving a narrative that resonates with consumers, fosters community, and supports sustainable food systems. Through our comprehensive suite of services and our deep-rooted passion for local food, we empower businesses to thrive in a competitive market, ensuring that the fruits of their labor reach tables near them.

As we look to the future, Cultivate remains steadfast in its mission to champion the local food movement. By blending our vast experience with a dynamic, forward-thinking approach, we continue to pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable world — one local food enterprise at a time.