This user guide is designed to help you get the most out of the Open Food Network platform to support the operation of local food enterprises and short food chains wherever you live.
The Open Food Network enables local people to build better, fairer ways to source their food locally and directly from growers, farmers and producers. Expansive networks of small food producers, distributors, retailers, food hubs, food co-ops and buying groups can come together with the aid of the Open Food Network to find the best way of shortening the food supply chain. And in the process it helps to build strong communities.
The Open Food Network is a global project that supports the operational organisation of farmers, groups of consumers, cooperatives, etc. in the distribution of local food. The software we build is open source, and we collaborate with amazing people from all over the world to keep improving it! We also provide support in the organisational aspects of setting up and running a food hub. Please get in touch with your local OFN contact to learn more about us!
This short video will give you a brief introduction to how the Open Food Network works, and what we can do for your food business, or organisation.
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Are you new to the Open Food Network? Take a look at our quick start guides for step-by-step instructions on setting up your enterprise for the first time.
{% hint style="info" %} Find out more about where your enterprise fits in the Open Food Network here {% endhint %}
Already set up, but want to find out more? Find a detailed explanation of every feature our platform offers so you can tailor your Open Food Network enterprise to meet your individual needs.
{% hint style="info" %} We recommend these guides to users who would like to customise their Open Food Network enterprise specifically to meet the needs of their business or customers. {% endhint %}
{% hint style="success" %} They are also a great resource for answering any questions you may have. {% endhint %}
> Guidelines on complementary software you might like to use in combination with the Open Food Network
The Open Food Network does a lot of things, but no one tool can fit all needs. We have listed some needs for which you might need complementary software, and how you can set them up to work hand in hand with your local Open Food Network platform.
Still not finding what you need? Check the Trouble Shooting section to see if your question has been asked by other users
Looking for information on something specific? Use the search bar in the top right corner to find the information you need.
Any problems with our user guide? Is there any information missing? Or maybe you want to share some features you would like to see in the future? Get in touch with your local OFN entity, we'd love to hear your feedback.