Small-scale agricultural entrepreneurs often encounter specific obstacles when it comes to business planning and marketing. Recognizing these challenges, the University of Missouri Extension has introduced an innovative webinar series titled “Empowering Small Farms.” This initiative aims to provide practical skills and resources to help farmers thrive in today's competitive market. The series will run through March, offering evening sessions that focus on various aspects of business development.
The webinars kick off with a session on strategic marketing, where participants will learn effective ways to communicate their unique value proposition and develop customer profiles. Subsequent sessions delve into evaluating new product ideas, understanding cost assessments for different market channels, and exploring key considerations for scaling a business. Each session is designed to be interactive, ensuring attendees gain hands-on knowledge and confidence in making informed decisions. Experts from MU Extension guide these discussions, providing valuable insights and tools that can significantly enhance business efficiency.
The series also highlights the support available from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). By integrating FSA resources, the webinars aim to empower farmers with comprehensive guidance, from startup to expansion. Through this educational platform, small farm entrepreneurs can build a solid foundation for long-term success, fostering innovation and sustainability in agriculture. Ultimately, the “Empowering Small Farms” series not only equips farmers with essential skills but also encourages them to embrace strategic thinking, thereby contributing positively to the broader agricultural community.