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Problem Statement

Restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and markets are integral to Maine’s economy and culture, yet they face challenges related to food waste, resource inefficiency, and environmental impact. The problem is multifaceted:

• Food Waste: Approximately 30-40% of food is wasted in the U.S. annually, representing billions of dollars lost and significant environmental harm.
• Sustainability Practices: Many food businesses struggle to balance sustainability with profitability.
• Consumer Awareness: While consumers value sustainability, they often lack the tools or knowledge to make eco-friendly food choices.

How might we design a sustainable food business that reflects Maine’s values, appeals to tourists and locals, and addresses these challenges?

Challenge

This summer, you’ll be challenged to design a sustainable and innovative food business that could thrive in Maine’s vibrant culinary landscape. This business could take the form of a restaurant, pop-up café, food truck, or other creative concepts. Your solution should emphasize environmental, social, technological, and economic sustainability while celebrating Maine’s unique food culture.

You’ll work alongside Â鶹´«Ã½professors and local experts in sustainability, business, environmental science, and food systems to develop creative solutions. At the end of the program, you’ll present your proposals to a panel of Â鶹´«Ã½faculty, community leaders, and industry professionals.

Objectives

From your research and collaboration, you will:

1. Develop an Innovative Concept: Create a food business model that integrates Maine’s culinary identity with sustainability principles.
2. Reduce Food Waste: Propose actionable solutions for sourcing local ingredients, minimizing waste, and managing resources efficiently.
3. Understand Consumer Behavior: Analyze the preferences and motivations of target audiences, including tourists and locals. Establish branding strategies, technological requirements.
4. Incorporate Sustainability: Apply environmental, social, and financial considerations in your proposed design by:
   • Utilizing decision-making techniques.
   • Leveraging data analytics approaches.
   • Conducting investment and return-on-investment (ROI) analyses.