about vasfa
Founded in 1947 as the Tidewater Canners Association, the VASFA supports producers, retailers and farmers across the Commonwealth of Virginia to grow their businesses.
VASFA is the only statewide organization dedicated to the craft food and beverage industry's production, promotion, and placement in the Commonwealth. Craft-made and local food has become increasingly popular nation-wide, and the VASFA is developing to meet our members evolving needs. We are a not-for-profit organization dedicated to developing and promoting the Virginia specialty food and beverage industry.
grow your business
with vasfa
VASFA is your professional food & beverage community, providing the networking, inspiration, and tools to help your business thrive
MENTORING
Get guidance and insight about your business from VASFA industry professionals.
NETWORKING
Meet & connect with peers, suppliers, and buyers in the VASFA community.
EDUCATION
Learn about the VASFA industry from experienced industry leaders and regional experts
join the vasfa community of specialty brands
From local artisans to established brands, there’s a place for everyone in Virginia’s specialty food and beverage scene.
Join VASFA’s community of passionate makers, producers, and entrepreneurs shaping the flavor of Virginia.
"The volunteer founders and members of VSFBA have made a significant difference for my business over the last twelve years.
From meeting our QA consultant to knowing what to do at our initial trade shows, the guidance and support has saved our team time and helped us avoid many costly mistakes."
- Pierre Abushacra, Firehook Bakery
"The most important thing I can say about the Virginia Specialty Food and Beverage Association is that I wish I would have joined sooner! The value and amount of actionable, useful information presented during the monthly virtual Coffee Chats have been way beyond any other organization of which I am a part.
Getting a chance to network with and learn from other seasoned Virginia food and beverage business owners is invaluable."
- Jill Donaldson, LillyBean
"As there's no manual for entrepreneurship, I knew right away that I needed a mentor and community... my mentor suggested joining VSFBA.
It is an added bonus that I've found the community to be kind, supportive professionals whose products I've been tracking along with my own all these years. I can't recommend membership highly enough."
- Jennifer M. Davidson, Capital Chips LLC
“Being a member of VASFA provides leaning and networking opportunities that can be invaluable to your business. Having a go to for any questions in the industry and actually getting the necessary answers to be successful”
- Brandon Clark, Clark + Hopkins
Sofi Best New Product Award, 2019
Sofi Gold Award, 2020 & 2023