Next Generation

In the next five years an estimated 42 percent of Iowa farmers will retire, according to the 2009 Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll. What happens to that land could change forever the future of Iowa's landscape, environment, and food production. PFI members’ top priority is getting beginning farmers on the land with the goal that Iowa family farms will continue generation after generation, providing healthful food, profits to families, healthy ecosystems, and vibrant communities. Over 400 beginning farmers (in Iowa alone) participate in Next Generation events like Farminars. Our beginners tell us they need to network with others like them to get help writing a business plan and gaining access to capital and land. The Next Generation program provides opportunities to learn production, marketing, financial, stewardship, and spiritual lessons from experienced farmers at our conferences, workshops, online seminars, and on-farm field days.

Savings Incentive Program

PFI's Savings Incentive Program (SIP) matches beginners with a mentor, encourages farmers to develop and maintain a business plan, requires participants to attend PFI events for networking with experienced and beginning farmers, and entices beginners to begin a habit of regular business savings with the promise of a $1:$1 savings match (up to $2,400) after two years. Ten recipients were selected in 2011 and twenty-five more were selected in 2012.

Farminars

Farminars are FREE 90-minute, interactive online seminars on a wide variety of farming topics. Live Farminars in the Fall and Winter are viewed over the Internet, Tuesdays from 7–8:30 pm CST. Recorded Farminars are available for viewing in the archive.

Next Generation Retreat

Once per year, approximately 40 beginning farmers come together to network, learn from farmers, and share in community with other beginning farmers at an overnight retreat. This year, it will take place on December 8-9, 2011.

Find A Farmer

Find a Farmer provides a simple, graphical interface for beginners to post their land needs, and landowners to post land opportunities.

Youth Mini Grants

Practical Farmers of Iowa provided multiple mini grants to youth ages 18 and younger for on-farm research and demonstration projects. Designed to encourage youth to take an interest in agricultural research, grants varied in amount from $50 to $250 per applicant. Recipients were announced in May 2011.

Resources

PFI's Resource List for Financing
PFI's Resource List for Business Planning
Grow Your Small Market Farm - a well-liked business planning course recommended by members.
Apprentice/Internship opportunities with farms are possible and are made continually throughout the year. Contact luke@practicalfarmers.org with requests.
Beginning Farmer Center - We work collaboratively with the Beginning Farmer Center for farm families who need assistance with estate planning and transitions.

Our Programs