Project Overview
This renewal Standard BFRDP project built upon a successful BFRDP Grant (PD: Kelly Coleman, award 2016-03325-2009). Half (50%) of the budget was dedicated to serving socially disadvantaged or limited resource farmers (0% for military veterans). The lead agency (CISA) managed this state-wide project through an established network of three collaborating agricultural community-based organizations (CBOs): Berkshire Grown, Central Mass Grown, and Southeastern MA Agricultural Partnership. 96% of federal funds went to CBOs.
Our long-range goal for this project was to improve the sustainability of beginning farm businesses in Massachusetts by providing tailored technical assistance to at least 420 beginning farmers in the following topic areas: diversification and marketing strategies (Priority G), natural resource management (Priority F), entrepreneurship and business training (Priority C), and financial and risk management training (Priority E). Activities included 64 workshops, 20 networking events, and 240 one-on-one assistance meetings to 415 beginning farmers, plus detailed program evaluation. Combined, 915 farmers accessed on-going technical assistance and peer support through the collaborating organizations. Results from completed surveys indicated that: 93% (334/365) “moderately increased” knowledge and 53% (194/363) “substantially increased” knowledge in the areas of marketing, business planning, financial analysis, diversification, or natural resource management; 63% (105/166) implemented a business change as a result of training; 55% (30/55) met or exceeded their farm’s financial goals; and 87% of participants (65/75) confirmed that participation contributed to their ability to keep farming. The success of these outcomes has supported the economy and food security of the region.
Number of Participants: 885
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