This fall, Nebraska Extension and the Center for Rural Affairs are joining together to present the virtual course “Aspiring Farmer.” It begins Oct. 6
“Aspiring Farmer” is a six-week interactive course for aspiring and beginning farmers interested in starting or improving their small- to mid-scale produce, livestock or other diversified operations. From dreaming and creating a vision to developing a sound business and marketing plan, participants will be well-equipped to take the next steps in starting their farm operation. Coursework will include weekly presentations, discussions, and interactions with peers, instructors and farmers in the region.
The anticipated time commitment is three to four hours per week, including one 90-minute evening session each week, one highly encouraged weekly lunch hour discussion and no more than one hour of pre-work before each weekly evening session.
The course will take place on Tuesdays Oct. 6 through Nov. 10, with the exception of Election Day on Nov. 3. That session will be rescheduled according to participants’ schedules.
Class topics include:
Farm Dreams: This class will provide practical, common-sense information so you can decide if farming or ranching is the next step for you. You’ll be able to examine your resources, skills and motivations for farming/ranching and develop a plan for moving toward your farming goals.
Holistic Goal Setting: Plan what your future and farm look like. Setting shared holistic goals will give you a framework for decision-making and decrease your stress.
Enterprise Budgeting: Learn the budgeting process and tools needed to design a solid farm business plan that will help you achieve your financial goals.
Marketing: Participants will have a broad understanding of the importance of marketing to tell their story to potential customers and increase sales. Specific attention will be paid to branding, social media marketing and direct-to-consumer markets.
Farmer Resources: Creating a successful farm business begins with making sound financial decisions. Participants will be given a variety of resources to aid with land access, risk management, taxes, health care, food safety and more.
Wrap Up: Participate in a live panel discussion with regional farmers and industry members supporting beginning farmers through knowledge, experience and financial resources.
Instructors are from Nebraska Extension and the Center for Rural Affairs. The course will be housed in Google Classroom. Registration is required. The cost is $65, and scholarships are available upon request. Register here.
It is highly recommended that you have access to a computer; however, individual accommodations can be made. For more information, contact Katie Kreuser at katie.kreuser@unl.edu.
