Northwest PA Workforce Development Network

The Northwest Pennsylvania Food Processing Partnership serves 14 Counties of Northwest Pennsylvania,

purchasing foods in their natural state and converting them into products ready for the retail marketplace.

Its members play a significant role in the nation’s economy. Purchasing approximately two-thirds of their

food resources from local farmers, the members of the Partnership are substantial contributors to both

farming and to the regional economy.

Regional food processors compete with national organizations. Customers expect commensurate quality,

delivery, and pricing. But regional food processors do not enjoy the same economies of scale as the national

firms, a condition that places them at a competitive disadvantage. By coalescing in the Northwest Pennsylvania

Food Processing Partnership, the members expect to improve their purchasing power in the many areas required

to fulfill the Partnership goals.Chief among the Partnership’s requirements is the need for training and remediation.

Areas in which training is needed are: food safety and security, new product development, information management,

wastewater treatment, and energy conservation.