An In-Depth Hybrid Series for Beginning Farmers
Are you starting a farm? Do you have plans to begin selling a food product? Join a small cohort of beginning farmers to learn from topic experts and get paired with a farm mentor for the series.
The Whole Farm Planning & Mentoring program is a 10-week series that matches 15 beginning farmers with 15 mentors and leads them through the process of planning their business. Through weekly webinars with topic experts and one-on-one meetings with mentors, participants will learn the key components of starting a business with the goal of creating a new or refined business plan.
We will begin with the important work of visioning, then walk through the nuts and bolts of forming a business, creating sound financial plans, innovative marketing strategies, regulatory considerations and funding opportunities. Participants will hear from business experts, as well as current farm and food business owners who will bring their personal experiences and real world examples to the conversation. Participants are expected to attend all webinars, complete weekly assignments, and communicate with their mentor between sessions.
We are seeking beginning farmers who have already begun production or who are committed to developing a farm business in any sector. Participants should live in one of the Appalachian counties of Ohio or West Virginia.
This series typically runs January through March. A full schedule can be found on the registration page.
Cost of registration
- Regular price – $200
- Discounted price – $150 (enter Promo Code: DISCOUNT)
Limited scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply for a scholarship, please fill out this application or email Katie Lloyd at katie@ruralaction.org.