Farmer Training, Business Incubator and Apprenticeship

The California Farm Academy has seen tremendous growth over the last 6 years. What started as a training program now includes a farm business incubator program and a registered Farm and Ranch Manager apprenticeship program. The ultimate goal is to train and support new farmers and to develop a skilled farm work force. Applications for Farmer Training, Business Incubator and Apprenticeship are now being sought for the 2018 programs.

 

Beginning Farmer Training Program – This is the starting point of the California Farm Academy. Through a combination of classroom instruction, farm tours and field work, participants develop a business plan and out their next steps in pursuing their dreams of farming.

To date, 111 aspiring new farmers have graduated. Over 70% of them are now either farming or working in the field of agriculture.

Farm Business Incubator Program – Provides low cost land leases for those who are ready to start their farm enterprises. Land is available at three locations: West Sacramento Urban Farm, the Cannery in Davis, and the Farm on Putah Creek in Winters. These sites provide a diverse range of opportunities in terns of scale for new farmers. There is a strong mentorship component and workshops are offered regularly to guide these beginning farmers in building a successful farm enterprise.

Apprenticeship Program – For individuals who want to pursue a career in agriculture. We expect our graduates to either fill critical management positions on farms across the state, take the reins from farmers looking at retirement, or to launch their own farming operations. This two year program matches and places apprentices on farms in the Yolo, Solano and Sacramento region where they learn all aspects of managing a farm.