Beginning farmers seeking to enhance their business and marketing strategies can now apply for Fresh Connect, a six-month business coaching program offered at no cost by Iowa Valley RC&D. The program is funded by a USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program grant aimed at supporting agricultural entrepreneurs.
According to a release, the Fresh Connect program aims to equip beginning and underserved farmers with customized resources to help them achieve financial sustainability and avoid burnout.
Six, two-hour farm business coaching sessions, complimentary professional farm photoshoots and branding guides, full access to the Farm Commons library, and other educational tools will be made available to participants. Additionally, each participant will receive a $2,000 stipend to support investments in marketing and management for their farm business.
“Beginning farmers in Iowa endure significant challenges, from accessing markets and capital to creating viable business models in the face of burnout,” says Iowa Valley RC&D’s Business Education Manager, Kenna Bell, “Fresh Connect offers a space in the off-season for farmers to evaluate their personal vision for success and receive the resources, coaching, and community they need to achieve it.”
Nine farmers will be selected for the inaugural cohort of the Fresh Connect program, which will run from December 2024 through May 2025. The group will meet once a month, primarily in virtual sessions, with additional consultations available to help participants reach their specific business goals.
The Fresh Connect program is geared toward small- to mid-scale crop and livestock farmers in Eastern Iowa who are active in direct and wholesale market channels.
Eligible applicants should have been in operation for one to six years, demonstrate a commitment to continuing their farming business, and be focused on developing or refining their business and marketing strategies.
To learn more about the program or to apply, visit Fresh Connect Business Coaching — Iowa Valley RC&D or email [email protected]. The deadline to apply is Nov. 3 and selections will be announced by Nov. 17.
