Development of a Model for Supporting Food Production in Grassroots Economy Groups in Chiang Mai Province through Action Research

Abstract

Objective: To develop a food product promotion model for the grassroots economy in Chiang Mai Province. Methods: This action research was conducted from January to December 2025. The research process consisted of four phases: 1) exploring the current situation of food product promotion within the grassroots economy in Chiang Mai Province through semi-structured interviews with representatives from relevant agencies and organizations; 2) developing a food product promotion model via focus group discussions with representatives from relevant agencies or organizations; 3) implementing the developed model; and 4) evaluating the outcomes. Results: Although Chiang Mai Province had established a working committee comprising representatives from various agencies tasked with promoting food products in this sector, their operations remained fragmented and disorganized. The action research process facilitated collaborative engagement among these agencies to establish unified operational guidelines. The developed model comprised five components: 1) knowledge transfer, 2) site visits, 3) support provision, 4) meetings, and 5) data management. Following a five-month implementation phase of this co-developed model, the outcomes among the 12 participating entrepreneurs were as follows: 3 entrepreneurs were granted manufacturing premise licenses, 1 was submitting documents for premise inspection, 7 were in the process of improving their facilities and equipment to meet licensing requirements, and 1 opted out of the licensing process. At the time of evaluation, no entrepreneurs had yet received product licenses. Conclusion: The development of systems and mechanisms to promote grassroots entrepreneurs requires fostering active participation from all relevant agencies and establishing shared goals. With the Provincial Public Health Office acting as the central coordinator, this collaborative approach enabled entrepreneurs to gain knowledge in product development, improve their manufacturing premises to meet quality standards, and access governmental support and various funding sources.