Full course description
Take a serious step forward in becoming a farmer with our eight-week series that covers all aspects of starting a farm business, including market research, business planning, production, pricing, sales, marketing, legal, and regulatory. Guest speakers will join virtually to share their expertise. Register early to save your spot, through UF/IFAS Extension Online or through UF/IFAS Manatee County eventbrite, as third-party sites are not affiliated with our classes or events.
Registration covers a family unit (husband-wife, father-daughter, etc.); however only one individual will be within the Canvas course.
First, fourth (tentative), and last sessions are in person; rest of sessions are virtual. First session includes a tour of several local farms located in Sarasota/Manatee County. Last session will include a farmer roundtable. Each family (farming enterprise) will be required to work on a business plan. Coaching and other resources will be provided. This course will require 2-3 hours weekly outside of class to maximize learning, complete deliverables, and work on business plan.
Completion of all deliverables for the program will enable you to be a qualified borrower for Farm Service Agency beginning farmer loans, based on their education requirements.
More details will be shared closer to the start date with information on Zoom and Canvas arrangements.
PRICE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
- Up to two people per farm will be covered under the registration
- Web access to all resources and course material
- Business plan guidance
- Farm tours/Farmer panels
- Networking with peers and experts
- Lots of great handouts and links
- Evidence-based, unbiased information
TOPICS TO BE COVERED IN THIS EIGHT-WEEK PROGRAM (Subject to changes)
- Taking Stock: What Do I Have and What Do I Want to Do?
- Financial Planning and Business Plans
- Soil, Water, Air, Climate
- Buildings, Equipment, Infrastructure Needs
- Woodlands and Wildlife
- Fruits, Vegetables, and Alternative Crops
- Animal Care and Management
- Legal, Regulatory, Sales and Marketing, E-commerce