Sweetpotato industry communications program (PW21000)

The Sweetpotato Industry Communications Program was established to address a critical gap in grower awareness and adoption of levy-funded research, development, and marketing initiatives. Historically, fragmented and inconsistent communication limited access to timely information about emerging technologies, best practices, and market trends which reduced growers’ ability to make informed decisions and maximise industry benefits. 

To address this, the program implemented a multi-channel communication approach that included six editions of The Vine e-newsletter, direct grower engagement through interviews and visits, the development of three detailed case studies and consistent updates to the ASPG website. Additionally, SMS messages advised contacts of new and relevant information and where to access it. These efforts ensured that R&D outcomes, market intelligence, and industry developments were delivered in a timely, practical, and accessible way. 

As a result, the program significantly increased industry engagement, improved understanding of research outputs, and supported the adoption of innovative on-farm practices. This has helped drive productivity, enhance farm profitability, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of the Australian sweetpotato industry. Feedback from growers confirmed the relevance and usefulness of the communications, with many able to cite articles from across the newsletters.  

New resources generated through the program included e-newsletters, case studies, and R&D summaries are now available via the ASPG website. These resources provide ongoing access to vital information for growers, service providers, and stakeholders across the supply chain.