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Abstract
To generate additional income for their members, many cooperatives consider
forward integrating into processing activities. However, many market, industry,
and economic issues must be considered before choosing a value-added processing
activity to pursue. Gathering the necessary information to evaluate various processing
opportunities is a considerable undertaking and may require the expertise of
university personnel, economic development specialists, and possibly professional
consultants. Using an Oklahoma new generation cooperative case study, this paper
outlines a market assessment process for value-added ventures.