The course includes:
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Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings (SIFB) is an annual program offered from November through March each year, and is open to anyone wanting to engage in sustainable, entrepreneurial farming or cottage food industry. The program provides education and information for beginning and transitioning farmers and ranchers in three key ways:
Through Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings, you will:
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SeminarsSouthern Illinois Farm Beginnings includes 6 seminars on business and marketing skills. These classes run from November through March. In 2019-20, most classes meet on Saturday from 2pm to 6pm, depending on students' schedules and venue availability. More information is available upon request.
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MentorshipA key factor for beginning farmers is learning from those who have the knowledge and experience in the field or on the ranch. An important part of the Southern Illinois Farm Beginnings program is pairing up beginning and transitioning growers with mentors.
Participants in the program will be paired up with successful growers in a similar field. |
Field DaysFarm Beginning students will attend 6-8 on farm Field Days and workshops. Field Days will be hosted in conjunction with the Southern Illinois Farming Alliance.
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Application Guidelines
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