The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and UK agricultural economics department will host the ninth annual National Value- Added Agriculture Conference at Lexington’s Embassy Suites Hotel June 3-5.The conference is aimed at resource providers, counselors, and practitioners who mentor entrepreneurs in value-added agricultural business ventures. Conference planners hope to draw a diverse audience of economic development professionals, small business development counselors, cooperative development centers, extension educators and entrepreneurs. Topics will focus on three main tracks – “Value Added in Community Development,” “Bio-Economy” and “Toolbox Tips for Value-Added Entrepreneurs.”Value-added agricultural entrepreneurs strive to add value to farm commodities and resources through processing, packaging and/or marketing activities that increase farm income. Like all small businesses, value-added enterprises face many challenges on the road to success. Conference attendees will strengthen their ability to aid entrepreneurs in overcoming these challenges.Those attending will have a chance to experience Kentucky value-added items during “A Taste of Kentucky” at the Kentucky Horse Park. A tradeshow, featuring value-added research and industry exhibits, will be open from 6 p.m. June 3 to 12 p.m. June 5. Registration for the conference is $125 per person by May 15. After May 15, the fee increases to $160. Make checks payable to the University of Kentucky and mail to UK Ag Econ/Value Added Conference, C/O Jennifer Hunter, 320 C.E. Barnhart Building, Lexington, KY, 40526-0276, or fax registration and credit card information to 859-225-9043.