Experience the Taste of the IRV: A Celebration of Local Flavor and Community Innovation

As part of SUNY Cobleskill’s Coby Homecoming and Family Weekend, the Institute for Rural Vitality invites families, alumni, and the greater community to join them for Taste of the IRV — a showcase of food, creativity, and collaboration happening right here in the Mohawk Valley.

On Saturday, October 4th, local businesses/participants of the Institute will gather on campus to share free samples of their products, offer items for sale, and tell the stories behind their work. From farm-fresh foods to innovative new flavors, Taste of the IRV is more than just an opportunity to try something delicious — it’s a chance to discover the growing network of entrepreneurs shaping the future of our region.

Meet the Institute for Rural Vitality

The Institute for Rural Vitality (IRV) at SUNY Cobleskill exists to strengthen communities, grow businesses, and open doors to new opportunities. While Taste of the IRV is a moment to celebrate local food producers, it also reflects the broader mission of the Institute — to serve as a hub of support for anyone in our community looking to build, learn, or grow.

Here’s how the IRV works with people across the Mohawk Valley and beyond:

• Entrepreneurial Services
  From idea to launch, the IRV helps businesses at every stage of development. Whether it’s writing a business plan, navigating regulations, or scaling up production, our team provides the guidance and technical support entrepreneurs need to succeed.
• Shared-Use Facilities
  Entrepreneurs and community members have access to professional-grade facilities including a commercial kitchen, brewing and fermenting lab, dairy processing center, meat processing lab and packaging equipment. These spaces make it possible for small businesses to test products, expand production, and bring new ideas to market without the high cost of investing in infrastructure.
• Workforce Development
  The IRV partners with local industries to strengthen the regional workforce. Through hands-on training, microcredentials, and partnerships with employers, the IRV helps prepare individuals for in-demand jobs while meeting the needs of businesses seeking skilled employees.
• Continuing Education
  Learning doesn’t stop after graduation. The IRV offers opportunities for community members to build new skills, earn professional certifications, and explore emerging fields — keeping our region competitive and connected to the future.

A Community Resource for All

The most important thing to know: the Institute for Rural Vitality is here for everyone. Whether you are a farmer, a food producer, a student, a parent, or a community member with an idea, the IRV offers tools, training, and support to help you thrive. Taste of the IRV is a chance to experience this work firsthand, while also enjoying the creativity and hard work of local businesses.

Join us during Homecoming and Family Weekend and see how the Institute for Rural Vitality is bringing people together to strengthen the Mohawk Valley, one idea — and one taste — at a time.

Event Details
📅 Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025 11am-2pm
📍 Location: SUNY Cobleskill Campus
🎟️ Free and open to the public
🍴 Free samples & local products for sale