North Carolina SweetPotato Commission Foundation
In 2001, the North Carolina SweetPotato Commission Foundation was chartered as a 501 (c) 3 entity. The charitable, research and educational activities conducted through grants and gifts benefits North Carolina’s sweet potato industry in the following ways—
- Developing a clear understanding of consumers needs and expectations
- Collaborating with researchers and developers for value-added products at the retail and foodservice levels
- Seeking out opportunities with major food manufacturers to increase sweet potato processing within the state
- Improving retail marketing programs to boost sales during “Off Peak” seasons
- Researching and applying for grant opportunities to fund projects that benefit the industry and consumers which includes food safety, research as to the health benefits of sweet potatoes, market research and development, and development of economic models for farm profitability and sustainability
The North Carolina SweetPotato Commission Foundation Project Director, John Kimber, develops and implements projects aligned to bring economic development to North Carolina. Mr. Kimber has over thirty years of management experience including Proctor & Gamble, Burger King and ConAgra. His connections with top-tier foodservice executives facilitate forming partnership opportunities that benefit all parties. His knowledge of food manufacturing, product development, quality control, procurement, profit center management, and domestic and international sales and marketing expertise make him a valuable asset to the organization.
Grantors to the NCSPC Foundation include:
- Golden LEAF Foundation of NC (2001-2006)
- NC Rural Economic Development Center (2006)
- North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund (2007, 2011)
- NC Department of Justice (2007)
- Specialty Crop Block Grant (2009-2010)
Copies of project reports and statistics available upon request. Please email contact John Kimber at johnwkimber@aol.com.