In December 2022, NEXT Steps was selected by Camp CARVER to serve as an education and training service provider for their USDA Beginning Ranchers and Farmers Program Grant.
The NEXT Steps Youth Entrepreneur Program is a comprehensive training program that focuses on providing young people with the skills, knowledge and learning tools they need to succeed in the agritourism industry. NEXT Steps uses the Community On Demand Learning Management System to teach participants about the various aspects of running a successful agritourism business, including marketing, financial management, and sustainable practices.
Through the USDA Beginning Ranchers & Farmers Grant, Camp CARVER will be able to provide this training to a diverse group of young people from across the region. The grant will allow Camp CARVER to offer the program at no cost to participants, making it accessible to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to gain these valuable skills. The goal of this project is to equip socially disadvantaged and veteran beginning farmers and ranchers (SDVBFR) in MO and KS, with the knowledge and skills needed for them to start and operate profitable and sustainable farm enterprises.
Target: 45-150 Farmers, Farm Families, NextGen Youth Farmers, Women, Minorities, BIPOC/MInorities & Underserved Populations | Training Materials @ $150 per person
The proposed project will be conducted in a comprehensive manner (planning, production, and marketing), and outreach, training and technical assistance will be used as our major project delivery strategies. The project will address a variety of topics to provide participating farmers with information and skills needed for them to begin and sustainably operate successful farm businesses. Priority will be given to the following topics: 1) Basic livestock, forest management and crop farming practices, 2) Innovative farm/ranch and private non-industrial forest land. transfer strategies, 3) Entrepreneurship and business training, 4) Agricultural rehabilitation and vocational training for veterans, 5) Financial and risk management training, 6) Farm safety and awareness, 7) Assist SDVBFR in acquiring land from retiring farmers/ranchers, 8)Diversification and marketing strategies, and 9) Mentoring, apprenticeship and internships.
NEXT Steps will include a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on training, allowing participants to gain a deep understanding of the agritourism industry. They will learn about topics such as crop and livestock management, marketing strategies, and the importance of sustainability in agritourism.
In addition to the skills development training, NEXT Steps will also provide participants with the opportunity to network with industry professionals, visit local agritourism businesses, and participate in internships or apprenticeships. This will give them a chance to gain real-world experience and make valuable connections in the industry.
Overall, the NEXT Steps Youth Entrepreneur Program is an exciting opportunity for young people interested in agritourism to gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in this growing industry. With the support of the USDA Beginning Ranchers & Farmers Grant, Camp CARVER is able to provide this valuable training to a diverse group of young people, helping to ensure the future success of the agritourism industry.
