Small Farm Leadership 360
THE SMALL FARM LEADERSHIP 360 INITIATIVE is a hands-on, in-depth learning experience designed to help small, farms thrive. Offered by Cooperative Extension at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, it brings together the expertise of Cooperative Extension and the local knowledge of public and private community organizations to give farmers skills for success. At this time, all learning will be virtual; in-person education will be added to the program later in the year, if possible.
Module 4 is set for Feb. 21 – 22, 2023. Fill out the application form to reserve your seat. Download the Application. View Module 4 agenda.
Module 4, Feb. 21 – 22, 2023 Best Practices in Agricultural Production. This module includes informal lectures, roundtable discussions, and interactive hands-on learning to develop a farm mission statement and business plan. The module will also address how to achieve retail, wholesale, and agribusiness success and how to be a successful negotiator.
Who Should Attend
The Small Farm Leadership 360 Initiative targets small and operated farms in 17 Northeastern North Carolina counties that face significant economic challenges. The program is free for qualified participants, but only a limited number of spaces are available. Apply now to reserve your spot! Simply fill out and mail the attached form.
The Initiative seeks small, farmers from limited-resource counties. All are welcome to apply, however, primary consideration will be given to farmers in underserved counties in northeastern North Carolina.
What You'll Learn
The Small Farm Leadership 360 Initiative consists of four modules, taught online and through hands-on experiences.Overview of U.S. Production Agriculture. Topics include farmland ownership, types of farm businesses, farm management best practices, and tax advantages for small farmers.
Market Opportunities for Small Farmers. Topics include understanding market conditions and using market data in decision making. Participants will visit at least two research facilities to learn about farm production techniques, emerging alternative crops, and value-added products with potential for small farmers.
Introduction to Farm Cooperatives. Participants will visit farm cooperatives
to gain first-hand knowledge about this emerging agricultural model. Other topics include an overview of financial resources for farm cooperatives, including government grants, mortgages, business loans, and joint business agreements.
Best Practices in Agricultural Production. This module includes an informal lecture, interactive small group learning, and an on-the-farm experience where participants will put to use a six-month best practice action plan. The plans will be developed with guidance from a local Cooperative Extension agent and must be approved by the Small Farm Leadership 360 team.
Contact
Mark Blevins
Assistant Administrator for Agricultural and Natural Resources
(336) 285-4659
mwblevins@ncat.edu
