business plan related to agriculture

Agricultural Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Agricultural Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Agricultural business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Agricultural companies.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Agricultural business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Schrute’s Roots is a startup agricultural business that produces crops for Scranton, Pennsylvania and the surrounding area. Schrute’s Roots will specifically grow root vegetables, including potatoes, onions, and beets. The company’s mission statement is to work hard to grow these vegetables organically and without any chemicals. We will sell our produce at local farmer’s markets as well as to local restaurants and other establishments that would like to use or sell our produce.

Schrute’s Roots is owned and led by Dwight Schrute. Dwight has been a farm operations manager for the past twenty years, bringing a plethora of knowledge and skills that will prove to be invaluable to all aspects of the business. After working as a farm operations manager, Dwight desired to run his own agricultural farm business that grows organic produce and benefits the local community. He will utilize his prior knowledge and experience to manage crop production, operations, and other aspects of the business.

Product Offering

Schrute’s Roots grows a variety of root vegetables for Scranton, Pennsylvania and the local community. All produce will be organically grown. We alternate our crops, so the exact crops that are grown will be dependent on the season and current crop cycle. Some crops that we plan to grow include the following:

Customer Focus

Schrute’s Roots will primarily serve the residents and businesses of Scranton, Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas. Any individual or establishment that is interested in purchasing our crops is welcome to partner with us. We will sell our crops to individuals at local farmer’s markets and directly to wholesalers, grocery stores, and restaurants.

Management Team

Schrute’s Roots’ most valuable asset is the expertise and experience of its founder, Dwight Schrute. Dwight has been a farm operations manager for the past twenty years, bringing a plethora of knowledge and skills that will prove to be invaluable to all aspects of the business. After working as a farm operations manager, Dwight desired to run his own agricultural business that grows organic produce and benefits the local community. He will utilize his prior knowledge and experience to manage crop production, operations, and other aspects of the business.

Success Factors

Schrute’s Roots will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Management: Schrute’s Roots’ management team has years of experience in agricultural operations, which will prove invaluable to all aspects of the business.
• Relationships: Having lived in the community for twenty years, Dwight Schrute knows all of the local leaders, media, and other influencers. As such, it will be relatively easy for Schrute’s Roots to build brand awareness and an initial customer base.
• Quality products at affordable pricing: Schrute’s Roots will provide quality products at affordable pricing, as it has high-quality equipment and uses the latest techniques.

Financial Highlights

Schrute’s Roots is currently seeking $750,000 to start the company. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the land and purchasing equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs and marketing costs. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Land: $200,000
• Equipment: $200,000
• Three Months of Overhead Expenses (payroll, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing Costs: $100,000
• Working Capital: $100,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Schrute’s Roots.

Company Overview

Who is schrute’s roots.

Schrute’s Roots is a startup agricultural business that produces crops for Scranton, Pennsylvania and the surrounding area. Schrute’s Roots will specifically grow root vegetables, including potatoes, onions, and beets. The company’s mission is to grow vegetables organically and without any chemicals. We will sell our produce at local farmer’s markets as well as to local restaurants and other establishments that would like to use or sell our produce.

  Schrute’s Roots is owned and led by Dwight Schrute. Dwight has been a farm operations manager for the past twenty years, bringing a plethora of knowledge and skills that will prove to be invaluable to all aspects of the business. After working as a farm operations manager, Dwight desired to run his own agricultural business that grows organic produce and benefits the local community. He will utilize his prior knowledge and experience to manage crop production, operations, and other aspects of the business.

Schrute’s Roots’ History

Dwight Schrute incorporated Schrute’s Roots as an S-corporation on May 1st, 2023. The operations aspects of the business will be run from Dwight’s home, while the agricultural aspects will be run from the land purchased for crop production.

Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:

• Found land to grow the crops and wrote a letter of intent to purchase it
• Developed the company’s name, logo, and website
• Determined agricultural equipment and inventory requirements
• Began recruiting key employees

Schrute’s Roots’ Services

Industry analysis.

The agricultural industry is vital to all communities. The crops and products grown by local farmers and crop production companies are essential to the health of local communities. They provide jobs to the locals and result in locally grown food that the nearby residents can purchase. Larger agriculture businesses do not offer these benefits to smaller communities. Because of this, there has been a greater demand and emphasis on the sustainability of local agricultural companies that can directly benefit the local community.

Furthermore, market research shows that local communities are demanding that crop production and other agricultural companies grow their products organically. Organic foods are much healthier for individuals to eat because they provide more nutrition and aren’t laced with chemicals. Improved technology and research into organic methods are making this form of crop production more profitable and sustainable.

Therefore, with the increasing demand for local organic farms, we are confident that Schrute’s Roots will succeed in the local market and benefit the residents of the Scranton area.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Schrute’s Roots will serve the industries and community residents of Scranton, Pennsylvania and its surrounding areas. We will sell our produce at farmer’s markets to individuals and directly to establishments that wish to partner with us.

The demographics of Scranton, Pennsylvania are as follows:

Customer Segmentation

Schrute’s target audience segments include:

• Individuals
• Restaurants
• Grocery Stores

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Schrute’s Roots will face competition from other agriculture businesses. A description of each competitor company is below.

AgraFarm is one of the largest raw food manufacturers in the U.S., owning a 15,000-acre farm for agriculture. It has well-established connections with big FMCG companies and has been thriving in the agricultural industry for 12 years. It also has automated equipment and machines, which helps in improving its operations and reducing costs. AgraFarm is also known for delivering large orders at the right time without delay.

BDA Farms was established in 1998. BDA Farms is a very well-known company that provides good quality organic produce to companies. It also has a very good brand value, and its product packaging is second to none. BDA Farms is located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and it has a very effective distribution and supply chain network.

BeetFarms was initially a beets producer company and then branched out to other vegetables. BeetFarms is now one of the ten largest vegetable producers in the state. The Company’s packaging and processing units are located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It has recently acquired other local vegetable producers, expanding its operations as well as limiting the variety of farms producing vegetables for the community.

Competitive Advantage

Schrute’s Roots will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Schrute’s Roots will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Production of high-quality organic produce
• Affordable pricing
• Providing excellent customer service and customer experiences

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Schrute’s Roots is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

Social media is one of the most cost-effective and practical marketing methods for improving brand visibility. The company will use social media to develop engaging content in terms of various forms and technologies of commercial cultivation and post customer reviews that will increase audience awareness and loyalty.

Website/SEO

Schrute’s Roots will develop a professional website that showcases pictures of the farm and the products we will grow. It will also invest in SEO so that the company’s website will appear at the top of search engine results.

Industry Events

By attending regional farming conferences, association meetings, and symposia, Schrute’s Roots will network with agricultural industry leaders and seek referrals to potential customers.

Direct Mail

The company will use a direct mail campaign to promote its brand and draw customers, as well. The campaign will blanket specific neighborhoods with simple, effective mail advertisements that highlight the credentials and credibility of Schrute’s Roots as a high-quality crop production agriculture business.

Schrute’s Roots’ pricing will be competitive. Pricing will be about 50% lower than retail prices to allow wholesalers and retailers to earn their margins.

Operations Plan

Operation Functions: The following will be the operations plan for Schrute’s Roots.

• Dwight Schrute will be the Owner and President of the company. He will oversee all staff and manage client relations. He will help with the produce cultivation until he has hired a full staff of farmhands. Dwight has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Meredith Grant – will oversee all administrative aspects of running the farm. This will include bookkeeping, tax payments, and payroll of the staff.
• Kevin Baird – Head Farmhand who will oversee the farming staff and day to day operations.
• Oscar Smith– Assistant Farmhand who will assist Kevin.

Milestones:

Schrute’s Roots will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 07/202X Finalize land purchase
• 08/202X Design and build out Schrute’s Roots
• 09/202X Hire and train initial staff
• 10/202X Kickoff of promotional campaign
• 11/202X Launch Schrute’s Roots
• 12/202X Reach break-even

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

Schrute’s Roots’ revenues will come from the sales of root vegetables to its customers and local food establishments.

The major cost drivers for Schrute’s Roots will be labor expenses, land purchase, equipment purchases and maintenance, and marketing plan expenses.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $100,000
• Working capital: $100,000

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of customers per month:
• Annual equipment maintenance costs: $20,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, agricultural business plan faqs, what is an agricultural business plan.

An agricultural business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your agricultural business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Agricultural business plan using our Agricultural Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Agricultural Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of agricultural businesses , some examples include: Animal feed manufacturing, Agrichemical and seed manufacturing, Agricultural engineering, Biofuel manufacturing, and Crop production.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Agricultural Business Plan?

Agricultural businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start an Agricultural Business?

Starting an agricultural business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop An Agricultural Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed agricultural business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your agricultural business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your agricultural business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Agricultural Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your agricultural business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your agricultural business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Agricultural Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your agricultural business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your agricultural business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

How to Create an Agricultural Business Plan

Blog > how to create an agricultural business plan, table of content, introduction, executive summary, company description, market analysis, product/service description, marketing and sales strategies, operational plan, swot analysis, financial projections, funding and investment, risk management, sustainability and environmental impact, legal and regulatory compliance, timeline and milestones, our other categories.

• Company Valuation
• Pitch Deck Essentials
• Raising Capital
• Startup Guide
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Reading Time : 16 Min

Business plan 101.

Starting an agricultural venture is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it requires careful planning and a well-crafted agricultural business plan. This document serves as a roadmap for your agricultural business, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through each step of creating a robust agricultural business plan to set your venture up for success. Whether you’re planning to start a small family farm or a large-scale agricultural operation, this guide will help you make informed decisions and navigate the challenges of the agricultural industry.

The executive summary is the first section of your agricultural business plan, but it is typically written last. This section provides a concise overview of your entire plan and should capture the reader’s attention. Include the following elements in your executive summary:

• Example: ABC Farms is a sustainable agriculture venture committed to providing organic, locally sourced produce to health-conscious consumers in the region. Our mission is to promote eco-friendly farming practices and support local communities while delivering premium-quality products.

Stellar Business Tips: Keep your executive summary clear, compelling, and focused. Highlight the unique selling points of your agricultural business and how it addresses market demands.

In this section, provide a comprehensive description of your agricultural business. Include the following details:

• Example: ABC Farms was founded in 2010 by John and Jane Smith, who have a combined experience of over 20 years in sustainable agriculture. The business started as a small family farm and has since expanded to a 50-acre organic farm with a diverse range of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

Stellar Business Tips: Share your business’s background, founders’ expertise, and growth trajectory. Emphasize your passion for agriculture and commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Conduct a thorough market analysis to gain insights into the agricultural industry, market trends, and potential opportunities. Consider the following factors:

• Example: The organic produce market has been steadily growing at a rate of 10% per year, driven by increasing consumer awareness of health benefits and environmental concerns. Local restaurants and grocery stores are eager to source fresh, organic produce from nearby farms.

Stellar Business Tips: Use data and statistics to support your market analysis. Identify target customers and potential gaps in the market that your agricultural business can address.

Detail the agricultural products or services your business offers. If you are into crop farming, describe the crops you plan to grow, their varieties, and their uses. If you are into livestock rearing, specify the types of animals and breeds you’ll raise. If you offer agricultural services, describe them in detail.

• Example: ABC Farms specializes in heirloom vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, renowned for their exceptional flavor and nutritional value. We also raise heritage-breed livestock, including free-range chickens and pasture-raised pigs, to provide ethically sourced meat products.

Stellar Business Tips: Highlight the uniqueness and quality of your agricultural products or services. Emphasize your commitment to sustainability and responsible animal husbandry if applicable.

Outline your marketing and sales strategies to reach and attract your target customers. Consider the following aspects:

• Example: ABC Farms utilizes social media platforms to showcase our farm-to-table journey and engage with customers. We actively participate in farmers’ markets and local food events to promote our brand and build personal connections with consumers.

Stellar Business Tips: Utilize digital marketing tools, such as social media and email marketing, to create brand awareness and engage with customers directly. Explore partnerships with local businesses to expand your reach.

The operational plan outlines how your agricultural business will function on a day-to-day basis. It includes the following details:

• Example: ABC Farms employs a team of experienced farmers who follow sustainable farming practices, including crop rotation and integrated pest management, to ensure soil health and minimize environmental impact. We have invested in modern irrigation systems and machinery to optimize productivity and reduce labor costs.

Stellar Business Tips: Detail the specific practices and technologies you’ll use to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Showcase your commitment to ethical and responsible farm management.

Conduct a SWOT analysis to evaluate your agricultural business’s internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and threats. Use this analysis to make informed decisions and develop effective strategies.

• Example: Strengths: ABC Farms has established a strong reputation for premium-quality produce, garnering repeat customers and positive reviews. Weaknesses: We currently face limited storage facilities for harvested crops, which may affect our ability to meet peak demands.

Stellar Business Tips: Be honest about your agricultural business’s strengths and weaknesses. Address how you plan to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate potential risks.

The financial projections section provides a detailed forecast of your agricultural business’s financial performance over the next 3-5 years. Include the following financial statements:

• Example: Sales Forecast: We anticipate steady growth in sales, with a projected increase of 15% annually due to expanding customer base and diversified product offerings.

Stellar Business Tips: Use realistic and data-driven estimates for your financial projections. Include contingency plans for unforeseen financial challenges.

If your agricultural business requires funding or investment, outline your funding requirements and sources of financing. This section should include:

• Example: Funding Requirements: ABC Farms seeks a capital investment of $200,000 to expand farmland, install greenhouses, and upgrade equipment to meet the growing demand for our organic products.

Stellar Business Tips: Clearly explain how the investment will be used to drive the growth and success of your agricultural business.

Identify potential risks and challenges that your agricultural business may face and develop risk management strategies to mitigate their impact. Consider the following risk categories:

• Example: Market Risks: Fluctuations in commodity prices and changes in consumer preferences may impact our sales revenue. To address this, we will diversify our product offerings and explore new markets.

Stellar Business Tips: Demonstrate your proactive approach to risk management. Provide solutions for handling potential challenges to reassure stakeholders.

As the importance of sustainable farming practices grows, customers and investors increasingly value agricultural businesses that prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility. In this section, highlight your commitment to sustainability:

• Example: ABC Farms is committed to regenerative agriculture practices, including cover cropping and no-till farming, to enhance soil health and sequester carbon. We actively participate in local conservation programs to protect natural habitats and biodiversity.

Stellar Business Tips: Showcase your efforts to contribute positively to the environment and local community. Share success stories of how your sustainable practices have made a difference.

The agricultural industry is subject to various laws and regulations, such as agricultural zoning laws, environmental regulations, labor laws, and food safety standards. In this section, address the legal and regulatory aspects of your agricultural business:

• Example: ABC Farms complies with all local, state, and federal regulations for organic certification and food safety. We conduct regular inspections and maintain accurate records to ensure full compliance.

Stellar Business Tips: Emphasize your commitment to adhering to legal requirements and ensuring transparency in your agricultural operations.

Develop a timeline for your agricultural business’s key milestones and achievements. This section should include:

• Example: Milestone Timeline: Year 1 – Acquire additional farmland; Year 2 – Expand greenhouse production; Year 3 – Launch an online farm-to-table store.

Stellar Business Tips: Set realistic timelines for achieving your milestones. This will help you track progress and stay on course.

In conclusion, creating a well-structured and comprehensive agricultural business plan is crucial for your venture’s success. It provides a roadmap to guide your agricultural business towards its goals, while also attracting investors and other stakeholders. Remember that the agricultural industry is dynamic and continually evolving, so your business plan should be flexible enough to adapt to changing market conditions and opportunities.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and incorporating sustainable practices, your agricultural business can thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. At Stellar Business Plans , we are dedicated to supporting the success of agricultural entrepreneurs like you. Our team of experts can assist you in crafting a tailored business plan that aligns with your vision and values. Let’s cultivate growth together and create a sustainable future for agriculture!

Remember, agricultural business success is not only about financial gains but also about nurturing the land, supporting local communities, and providing consumers with nutritious and ethically sourced products. Let your passion for agriculture and dedication to sustainability shine through every aspect of your business. Together, we can sow the seeds of a thriving agricultural future.

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Updated On : September 2, 2023

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Farm Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 3,500 farmers create business plans to start and grow their farm businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a farm business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Farm Business Plan Template here >

What is a Farm Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your farm business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Farm

If you’re looking to start a farm business or grow your existing farm business you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your farm business in order to improve your chances of success. Your farm business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes. It can be used to create a vegetable farm business plan, or a dairy farm, produce farm, fruit farm, agriculture farm and more.

Source of Funding for Farm Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a farm business are personal savings, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable. But they will want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

The second most common form of funding for a farm business is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding, or, like a bank, they will give you a loan.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

Your business plan should include 10 sections as follows:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of farm business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a farm business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of farm businesses.

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the farm business industry. Discuss the type of farm business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of farm business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types among others:

• Vegetable Farm : this type of farm grows a wide variety of vegetables (but not grains or soybeans) and melons in open fields and in greenhouses.
• Dairy Farm : this type of farm primarily raises cattle for milk. Typically, this type of farm does not process the milk into cheeses or butter, etc.
• Fruit Farm : this type of farm primarily grows fruits.
• Hay and Crop Farm : More than half of these types of farms grow hay, while a small number grow sugar beets. A variety of other crops, such as hops and herbs, are included in the industry. Some operators also gather agave, spices, tea and maple sap.
• Industrial Hemp Farm : this type of farm grows and harvests cannabis plants with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of less than 0.3% by weight.
• Plant & Flower Farm : this type of farm grows nursery plants, such as trees and shrubs; flowering plants, such as foliage plants, cut flowers, flower seeds and ornamentals; and short rotation woody trees, such as Christmas trees and cottonwoods.
• Vertical Farming : This type of farm involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often using controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technologies. This method dramatically reduces the amount of land space needed for farming and can increase crop yields.

In addition to explaining the type of farm business you operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include sales goals you’ve reached, acquisition of additional acreage, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the farm business.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the farm business industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy particularly if your research identifies market trends. For example, if there was a trend towards decaffeinated farm business consumption, it would be helpful to ensure your plan calls for plenty of decaffeinated options.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your farm business plan:

• How big is the farm business (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your farm business. You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your farm business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: food manufacturers, grocery wholesalers, retail grocers, restaurants, individual consumers, etc.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of farm business you operate. Clearly food manufacturers would want different pricing and product options, and would respond to different marketing promotions than retail grocers.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other farm businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes processed foods, imported goods, and growing produce themselves. You need to mention such competition to show you understand the true nature of the market.

With regards to direct competition, you want to detail the other farm businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be farm businesses located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What products do they offer?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide superior products?
• Will you provide products that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you make it easier or faster for customers to acquire your products?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a farm business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : in the product section you should reiterate the type of farm business that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to wholesale crops, will you also offer subscriptions to individuals?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the products you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your farm. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your farm centrally located near gourmet restaurants and specialty grocers, etc. Discuss how your location might provide a steady stream of customers. Also, if you operate or plan to operate farm stands, detail the locations where the stands will be placed.

Promotions : the final part of your farm business marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Making your farm stand extra appealing to attract passing customers
• Distributing produce samples from the farm stand or at farmers markets 
• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local bloggers and websites 
• Local radio advertising
• Banner ads at local venues

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your farm business such as serving customers, delivering produce, harvesting, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your 1,000th customer, or when you hope to reach $X in sales. It could also be when you expect to hire your Xth employee or acquire more arable land.

Management Team

To demonstrate your farm business’s ability to succeed as a business, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in farming. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in farming and/or successfully running small businesses.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 100 customers per week or 200? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : While balance sheets include much information, to simplify them to the key items you need to know about, balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. For instance, if you spend $100,000 on building out your farm, that will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $100.000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. For example, let’s say a company approached you with a massive $100,000 supplier contract, that would cost you $50,000 to fulfill. Well, in most cases, you would have to pay that $50,000 now for seed, equipment, employee salaries, etc. But let’s say the company didn’t pay you for 180 days. During that 180 day period, you could run out of money.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a farm business:

• Location build-out including barn construction, land preparation, etc.
• Cost of equipment like tractors and attachments, silos, barns, etc.
• Cost of nutrients and maintaining machinery
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Your new farm’s business plan must include a detailed financial plan based on reasonable assumptions of your costs and revenues. To determine if the results you show in this plan will be attractive to investors, look at industry standard financial metrics to see how you measure up against the farming industry, or your sector of the industry, on average. These are some basic measures and ratios to study.

Value of Production

The value of production is equal to your farm’s cash receipts plus the changes in value of product inventory and accounts receivable, less your livestock purchases. This is a measure of the value of the commodities you have produced in the period.

Net Farm Income

The NFI or net farm income, represents the value of production less direct and capital costs in the time period. This is a dollar figure, and not a ratio relating the income to the investment made, so it cannot be used to compare the farm against other farms.

Gross Margin

This represents the NFI less depreciation. The gross margin shows how much money is available in the year to cover the unallocated fixed costs, and dividends to owners and unpaid operators.

Return on Farm Assets

This is a ratio that can be used to compare the farm with others. This is calculated as NFI plus interest expense less unpaid operator labor, all divided by the total assets of the farm.

Asset Turnover Ratio

This ratio is equal to the value or production over the total farm assets. Combined with the operating profit margin ratio, this shows the efficiency of the farm in generating revenues.

Operating Profit Margin Ratio

This ratio is similar to Return on Farm Assets, but divides the same numerator (NFI plus interest expense less unpaid operator labor) by the value of production figure. This shows the percentage of each revenue dollar that becomes profit. If it is low, a higher turnover can compensate, and if it is high, a lower turnover ratio is required.

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your store design blueprint or location lease.

Farm Business Plan Summary

Putting together a business plan for your farm business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. It can be used for a small farm business plan template or any other type of farm. You will really understand the farm business, your competition and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful farm business.

Download Our Farm Business Plan PDF

You can download our farm business plan PDF here . This is a small farm business plan example pdf you can use in PDF format.  

Farm Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my farm business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Farm Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Farm Business Plan.

Where Can I Download a Free Farm Business Plan Example PDF?

You can download our farm business plan PDF template here . This is an example business plan template you can use in PDF format.

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Farm Business Plan

Used 5,069 times

Farm Business Plan gives an overview of the company, including corporation history, owner backgrounds, creations and more. Use this template to quickly develop your farm company plan.

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Farm Business Plan Template

Prepared by:

​ [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] ​

​ [Sender.Title] ​

​ [Sender.Phone] ​

​ [Sender.Email] ​

Executive Summary

​ [Sender.Company] is owned and operated by [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] .

​ [Sender.Company] produces and sells (product types, e.g., produce, pastured animals, herbs, etc.), and we also provide on-farm services including (service types, e.g., apple picking, events, produce stand, etc.).

The target audience for [Sender.Company] 's product will be local consumers and businesses whom we will target directly. To market to this audience, we plan to take advantage of public picking events, farmers' markets, and a roadside farm stand.

Future of the Farm

​ [Sender.Company] plans to turn our XX acres of farmland into a sustainable source of crops, pastured animals, and pollinators. We plan to use regenerative farming practices as much as possible and understand what management techniques work best for our acreage.

Additionally, we will have a large greenhouse and use season extension techniques to get more value out of our farmland.

To build a locally well-known brand and eventually expand our presence across the state.

To sell enough of our product to generate a positive cash flow, support the farm owners and staff, and pay back capital plus 15% interest to our investors.

To preserve and enhance our farmland so that it remains sustainable and we can continue to share the fruits of the land with others.

Follow a thorough 3-year business plan and reassess every year to ensure we remain on track.

Seek funding from our network of contacts and outside funders for start-up costs.

Execute a creative marketing plan that introduces our brand to our target market.

Company Description

Business address and contact.

​ [Sender.StreetAddress] , [Sender.City] , [Sender.State] [Sender.PostalCode] ​

​ [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] : [Sender.Phone] , [Sender.Email] ​

Principal Members

(Owner.FirstName) (Owner.LastName)

Qualifications/Experience

(number) years of experience as a farm hand at (farm name), plus an additional 5 years of experience as the farm manager

(Education)

(Operator.FirstName) (Operator.LastName)

(Experience)

Legal Structure

​ [Sender.Company] is a sole proprietorship.

Company Details

Our property is zoned for farm use, and we plan to use the land as follows:

X acres for pastured animals

X acres for produce

X acres for agritourism activities and events

Farm Assets

Greenhouse and propagation supplies

Farm stand (planned for 20XX)

Market Research

The demand for locally raised animals and grown produce is climbing at a rate of XX% per year and is expected to reach a total value of $XX billion by 20XX.

Consumer demand for free-range, pasture-raised animals is evidenced by farms like (name competitors) which have grown into valuations of (approximate company values) , respectively.

Regulations

​ [Sender.Company] is a licensed business in the State of [Sender.State] as of the year 20XX. We are in the process of applying for all of the necessary permits for constructing the farm stand, expanding the barn, and hosting on-site visitors to the farm.

Service Line

Product/service.

Services Include:

Pasture-raised animals

Produce cultivation

Public apple picking

Public hay maze

Special event packages

Marketing & Sales

Customer communications.

​ [Sender.Company] will communicate with its customers by:

Interacting with customers in-person via farmers markets, the farm stand, and through the leveraging of networking events.

Building an active social media presence on Instagram and TikTok.

Advertising agritourism activities like apple picking, hay mazes, farm trails, and other events.

Creating SEO-friendly blog posts on the company website to increase online presence.

Establishing listings with the local tourism board and activity guides.

Sales Strategy

​ [Sender.Company] 's product will be sold primarily in the (region) . The farm is located on a road with extensive car traffic, so we plan to build a farm stand on the property to capture attention and drive sales.

We also plan to build a social media presence and leverage local advertising to drive awareness of our brand. We will also attend farmers' markets within the region to meet customers face-to-face and build relationships.

Five-year plan

Year One: 20XX

Create a legal business entity

Apply for necessary licenses and permits.

Finalize farm layout.

Procure additional equipment.

Establish social media profiles.

Build a small farm stand.

Attend farmer's markets.

Year Two: 20XX

(List goals for year two)

Year Three: 20XX

Year Four: 20XX

Year Five: 20XX

​ [Recipient.FirstName] [Recipient.LastName] ​

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Useful resources

• Featured templates
• Sales proposals
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• Operating agreements
• Service agreements
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• Rental and lease agreement
• Quote templates

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Farming Business Plan

Agriculture is the one industry that consistently does well, irrespective matter the economic conditions of the world. So, for a stable income and career farming business is a great option.

Are you looking to start writing a business plan for your farming business? Creating a business plan is essential to starting, growing, and securing funding for your business. We have prepared a farming business plan template for you to help in start writing yours.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our Free Business Plan Template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a Farming Business Plan?

Writing a farming business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section of the business plan intended to provide an overview of the whole business plan. Generally, it is written after the entire business plan is ready. Here are some components to add to your summary:

Start with a brief introduction:

Market opportunity:, mention your services:, management team:.

Name all the key members of your management team with their duties, responsibilities, and qualifications.

Financial highlights:

Call to action:.

Ensure you keep your executive summary concise and clear, use simple language, and avoid jargon.

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2. Business Overview

Depending on what details of your business are important, you’ll need different elements in your business overview . Still, there are some foundational elements like business name, legal structure, location, history, and mission statement that every business overview should include:

About the business:

Provide all the basic information about your business in this section like:

• The name of your farming business and the type of business you are running or will run: organic farming, agricultural farming, dairy farming, commercial farming, or something else.
• Company structure of your farming business whether it is a proprietorship, LLC, partnership firm, or some other.
• Location of your farm and the reason why you selected that place.

Mission statement:

Business history:, future goals:.

This section should provide an in-depth understanding of your farming business. Also, the business overview section should be engaging and precise.

3. Market Analysis

Market analysis provides a clear understanding of the market in which your farming business will run along with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. Your market analysis should contain the following essential components:

Target market:

Market size and growth potential:, competitive analysis:, market trends:, regulatory environment:.

Some additional tips for writing the market analysis section of your business plan:

• Use a variety of sources to gather data, including industry reports, market research studies, and surveys.
• Be specific and provide detailed information wherever possible.
• Include charts and graphs to help illustrate your key points.
• Keep your target audience in mind while writing the business plan

4. Products And Services

The product and services section of an agriculture business plan should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

List the products & services:

• List the products you will produce or sell, such as crops, fruits, flowers, livestock, or value-added products like cheese or jams.
• Describe each product: Explain the features of your products, such as their quality, variety, and uniqueness. Also, discuss how your products will be packaged and marketed.

Emphasize safety and quality:

Overall, the product and services section of a business plan should be detailed, informative, and customer-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Operations Plan

When writing the operations plan section, it’s important to consider the various aspects of your business operations. Here are the components to include in an operations plan:

Operational process:

Technologies:.

By including these key elements in your operations plan section, you can create a comprehensive plan that outlines how you will run your farming business.

6. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of the individuals responsible for running the farming business. This section should provide a detailed description of the experience and qualifications of each manager, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Key managers:

Organizational structure:, compensation plan:, board of advisors:.

Describe your company’s key personnel and highlight why your business has the fittest team.

7. Financial Plan

When writing the financial plan section of a business plan, it’s important to provide a comprehensive overview of your financial projections for the first few years of your business.

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:, financing needs:.

Remember to be realistic with your financial projections, and to provide supporting evidence for all of your estimates.

8. Appendix

When writing the appendix section, you should include any additional information that supports the main content of your plan. This may include financial statements, market research data, legal documents, and other relevant information.

• Include a table of contents for the appendix section to make it easy for readers to find specific information.
• Include financial statements such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. These should be up-to-date and show your financial projections for at least the first three years of your business.
• Provide market research data, such as statistics on the size of the agriculture industry, consumer demographics, and trends in the industry.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Provide any additional documentation related to your business plans, such as marketing materials, product brochures, and operational procedures.
• Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the information they need.

Remember, the appendix section of your farming business should only include relevant and important information that supports the main content of your plan.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This farming business plan sample will provide an idea for writing a successful farming business plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you are still confused about how to write an investment-ready agriculture business plan to impress your audience, then download our farming business plan pdf .

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a farming business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful farming business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your farming business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your farming business.

How to get funding for your farming business?

There are several ways to get funding for your agriculture business, but one of the most efficient and speedy funding options is self-funding. Other options for funding are!

• Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
• Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting many people to invest in your farming business, usually online.
• Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought options for startups.
• Venture capital – Venture capitalists will invest in your business in exchange for a percentage of shares, so this funding option is also viable.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your farming business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and idea better than you, so we recommend you write your farming business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your agriculture business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any farming business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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How to Start a Farm: Plan Your Operation

Think about your operation from the ground up and start planning for your business.  A good farm business plan is your roadmap to start-up, profitability, and growth, and provides the foundation for your conversation with USDA about how our programs can complement your operation. 

Keep reading about planning your business below, get an overview of the beginning farmer's journey , or jump to a different section of the farmer's journey.

On This Page

Why you need a farm business plan.

A comprehensive business plan is an important first step for any size business, no matter how simple or complex. You should create a strong business plan because it:

• Will help you get organized . It will help you to remember all of the details and make sure you are taking all of the necessary steps.
• Will act as your guide . It will help you to think carefully about why you want to farm or ranch and what you want to achieve in the future. Over time, you can look back at your business plan and determine whether you are achieving your goals.
• Is required to get a loan . In order to get an FSA loan, a guarantee on a loan made by a commercial lender, or a land contract, you need to create a detailed business plan . Lenders look closely at business plans to determine if you can afford to repay the loan.

How USDA Can Help

Whether you need a good get-started guide, have a plan that you would like to verify, or have a plan you’re looking to update for your next growth phase, USDA can help connect you to resources to help your decisions.

Your state's beginning farmer and rancher coordinator  can connect you to local resources in your community to help you establish a successful business plan. Reach out to your state's coordinator for one-on-one technical assistance and guidance. They can also connect you with organizations that specifically serve beginning farmers and ranchers.

It is important to know that no single solution fits everyone, and you should research, seek guidance, and make the best decision for your operation according to your own individual priorities.

Build a Farm Business Plan

There are many different styles of business plans. Some are written documents; others may be a set of worksheets that you complete. No matter what format you choose, several key aspects of your operation are important to consider.

Use the guidelines below to draft your business plan. Answering these kinds of questions in detail will help you create and develop your final business plan. Once you have a business plan for your operation, prepare for your visit to a USDA service center. During your visit, we can help you with the necessary steps to register your business and get access to key USDA programs.

Business History

Are you starting a new farm or ranch, or are you already in business? If you are already in business:

• What products do you produce?
• What is the size of your operation?
• What agricultural production and financial management training or experience do you, your family members, or your business partners have?
• How long have you been in business?

Mission, Vision, and Goals

This is your business. Defining your mission, vision and goals is crucial to the success of your business. These questions will help provide a basis for developing other aspects of your business plan.

• What values are important to you and the operation as a whole?
• What short- and long-term goals do you have for your operation?
• How do you plan to start, expand, or change your operation?
• What plans do you have to make your operation efficient or more profitable ?
• What type of farm or ranch model (conventional, sustainable, organic, or alternative agricultural practices) do you plan to use?

Organization and Management

Starting your own business is no small feat. You will need to determine how your business will be structured and organized, and who will manage (or help manage) your business. You will need to be able to convey this to others who are involved as well.

• What is the legal structure of your business? Will it be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, trust, limited liability company, or other type of entity?
• What help will you need in operating and managing your farm or ranch?
• What other resources, such as a mentor or community-based organization , do you plan to use?

Marketing is a valuable tool for businesses. It can help your businesses increase brand awareness, engagement and sales. It is important to narrow down your target audience and think about what you are providing that others cannot.

• What are you going to produce ?
• Who is your target consumer ?
• Is there demand for what you are planning to produce?
• What is the cost of production?
• How much will you sell it for and when do you expect to see profit ?
• How will you get your product to consumers ? What are the transportation costs and requirements?
• How will you market your products?
• Do you know the relevant federal, state, and local food safety regulations? What licensing do you need for your operation?

Today there are many types of land, tools, and resources to choose from. You will need to think about what you currently have and what you will need to obtain to achieve your goals.

• What resources do you have or will you need for your business?
• Do you already have access to farmland ? If not, do you plan to lease, rent, or purchase land?
• What equipment do you need?
• Is the equipment and real estate that you own or rent adequate to conduct your operation? If not, how do you plan to address those needs?
• Will you be implementing any conservation practices to sustain your operation?
• What types of workers will you need to operate the farm?
• What additional resources do you need?

Now that you have an idea of what you are going to provide and what you will need to run your operation you will need to consider the finances of your operation.

• How will you finance the business?
• What are your current assets (property or investments you own) and liabilities (debts, loans, or payments you owe)?
• Will the income you generate be sufficient to pay your operating expenses, living expenses, and loan payments?
• What other sources of income are available to supplement your business income?
• What business expenses will you incur?
• What family living expenses do you pay?
• What are some potential risks or challenges you foresee for your operation? How will you manage those risks?
• How will you measure the success of your business?

Farm Business Plan Worksheets

The Farm Business Plan Balance Sheet can help gather information for the financial and operational aspects of your plan.

Form FSA-2037 is a template that gathers information on your assets and liabilities like farm equipment, vehicles and existing loans.

• FSA-2037 - Farm Business Plan - Balance Sheet
• FSA-2037 Instructions

Planning for Conservation and Risk Management

Another key tool is a conservation plan, which determines how you want to improve the health of your land. A conservation plan can help you lay out your plan to address resource needs, costs and schedules.

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) staff are available at your local USDA Service Center to help you develop a conservation plan for your land based on your goals. NRCS staff can also help you explore conservation programs and initiatives, such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) .

Conservation in Agriculture

Crop insurance, whole farm revenue protection and other resources can help you prepare for unforeseen challenges like natural disasters.

Disaster Recovery

Special Considerations

Special considerations for businesses.

There are different types of farm businesses each with their own unique considerations. Determine what applies to your operation.

• Organic Farming  has unique considerations. Learn about organic agriculture , organic certification , and the  Organic Certification Cost Share Program  to see if an organic business is an option for you. NRCS also has resources for organic producers and offers assistance to develop a conservation plan.
• Urban Farming  has special opportunities and restrictions. Learn how USDA can help farmers in urban spaces .
• Value-Added Products . The Agricultural Marketing Resource Center (AgMRC) is a national virtual resource center for value-added agricultural groups.
• Cooperative.  If you are interested in starting a cooperative, USDA’s Rural Development Agency (RD) has helpful resources to help you begin . State-based  Cooperative Development Centers , partially funded by RD, provide technical assistance and education on starting a cooperative.

Special Considerations for Individuals

Historically Underserved Farmers and Ranchers: We offer help for the unique concerns of producers who meet the USDA definition of "historically underserved,"  which includes farmers who are:

• socially disadvantaged
• limited resource
• military veterans

Women: Learn about specific incentives, priorities, and set asides for  women in agriculture within USDA programs.

Heirs' Property Landowners: If you inherited land without a clear title or documented legal ownership, learn how USDA can help Heirs’ Property Landowners gain access to a variety of programs and services

Business Planning

Creating a good business plan takes time and effort. The following are some key resources for planning your business.

• Farm Answers from the University of Minnesota features a library of how-to resources and guidance, a directory of beginning farmer training programs, and other sources of information in agriculture. The library includes business planning guides such as a Guide to Developing a Business Plan for Farms and Rural Businesses and an Example Business Plan .
• The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers information about starting, managing, and transitioning a business.

SCORE is a nonprofit organization with a network of volunteers who have experience in running and managing businesses. The Score Mentorship Program partners with USDA to provide:

• Free, local support and resources, including business planning help, financial guidance, growth strategies.
• Mentorship through one-on-one business coaching -- in-person, online, and by phone.
• Training from subject matter experts with agribusiness experience.
• Online resources and step-by-step outlines for business strategies.
• Learn more about the program through the Score FAQ .

Training Opportunities

Attend field days, workshops, courses, or formal education programs to build necessary skills to ensure you can successfully produce your selected farm products and/or services. Many local and regional agricultural organizations, including USDA and Cooperative Extension, offer training to beginning farmers.

• Cooperative Extension  offices address common issues faced by agricultural producers, and conduct workshops and educational events for the agricultural community.
• extension.org  is an online community for the Cooperative Extension program where you can find publications and ask experts for advice.

Now that you have a basic plan for your farm operation, prepare for your visit to a USDA service center.

2. Visit Your USDA Service Center

How to Start a Farm with USDA

Get an  overview of the beginning farmer's journey  or jump to a specific page below.

Find Your Local Service Center

USDA Service Centers are locations where you can connect with Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or Rural Development employees for your business needs. Enter your state and county below to find your local service center and agency offices. If this locator does not work in your browser, please visit offices.usda.gov.

Learn more about our Urban Service Centers . Visit the Risk Management Agency website to find a regional or compliance office  or to find an insurance agent near you.

Agriculture Business Plan: Step-by-Step Guide to Start Agri-Business

• Malti Chaudhary
• May 24, 2023
• Business Loan , Finance

Agriculture has long been the foundation of economies all across the world, supplying communities with food, resources, and income. With the agricultural sector employing more than 80% of the world’s labour force, it is obvious that this sector is crucial to the prosperity of any nation’s economy. 

For an entrepreneur, there are numerous opportunities in this sector. Whether you want to start a successful farm business, or you are looking for government assistance in the form of loans and subsidies. In this article, we’ll cover all the topics.

Let’s understand what are different factors to consider in Agriculture business plans.

The Importance of Agriculture in India

• Over 60% to 70% of the Indian population relies on agriculture and related industries.
• Almost 52% of the labour force in the nation is employed in the agriculture industry.
• About 18.3% of India’s GDP (2022-23) (Gross Domestic Product) is attributed to agriculture. ( PIB )
• India’s GDP from agriculture increased to 6934.75 INR billion in the 4th quarter of 2022 from 4297.55 INR billion in the 3rd quarter.
• The Indian agriculture industry is projected to grow by 3.5% during the fiscal year 2022-2023.[ Source ]

Agriculture Business Plan  

A solid plan may make your agriculture business successful. Therefore when writing one, consider all the elements that constitute an excellent agriculture business plan. Also, take inspiration and incorporate key elements from already existing businesses. 

Purpose of Agriculture Business Plan 

• A strong agriculture business plan helps you understand the teams and make key business decisions to accomplish desired goals.
• It also helps you get investors for your business. Investors could be bankers or any other venture capitalists who would be willing to raise funds for your agribusiness. 
• It helps determine if you can get the business going in a set direction and also allows you to estimate the costs required for founding the business.
• A good business plan clearly defines your corporate objectives.

Elements of an Agriculture Business Plan

While creating a strategy for your agriculture business, use a step-by-step procedure and include a comprehensive list of all the necessary components. Of course, your business strategy will determine whether you are a startup or an established firm. In any case, you must ensure that your business plan is inclusive, succinct, detailed, and grounded in reality.

Planning to create an Agriculture Business plan? Here’s what you should include:

1. Purpose and Objectives

The goal of the company is expressed in its objective statement. It dictates why you want to start the business and what you hope to achieve. Also, it identifies the other companies or entities your business will work with.

Thus, your company’s mission statement must incorporate information about your brand and core values.

2. Business Details 

Illustrate every important component of your business, including its location, the size of its property, the date it began operations, its current status, and the sector it operates in. This section could also address other subjects, like marketing and sustainability.

3. Market Analysis

The majority of businesses begin by researching their industry. So, it would be great to implement the same idea in your agricultural business.

You can start by learning about the needs and compiling as much data as possible on supply and demand, market trends, rivals, and customers.

4. SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis is a way to determine your agribusiness’s internal strengths and weaknesses. The outside world may teach you about your possibilities, threats, skills, and shortcomings. For example, new markets, competitors, governmental limits, laws, and current economic conditions could all be opportunities or dangers.

By conducting a SWOT analysis, you can know the strengths and weaknesses of your agribusiness on the inside. Besides strengths and weaknesses, you can also learn about opportunities and threats from the outside. Opportunities and threats could include new markets and competitors, government regulations and restrictions, and prevailing economic conditions.

5. Business Strategy

Create a marketing plan corresponding to your mission statement and goals, the products and services you want to sell. The information you gathered during the research and analysis phases can provide ideas for this.

While creating a marketing plan, be sure to take into account all aspects, including pricing, location, and promotion. Consider how your products or services could help your clientele as well. Customers should be made aware of your product’s benefits. Then and only then will your business thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.

6. Finances

One of the most important sections of any agriculture business plan is the financing portion. You should assess your current financial condition and future prospects.

Depending on your financial status, you can decide whether a business loan is necessary for your agribusiness. Determine your current financial status and the money required to build your agriculture business.

7. Management Summary

The management summary, which comes last in your agricultural business plan, is where you highlight your successes and showcase them to potential investors.

Show them your financial projections and reassure them that investing in your business is a smart move. Doing this can bring in more potential investors for your agricultural business.

Steps to Draft an Agriculture Business Plan

• Step 1: Before getting started you need to first make up your mind about the type of agriculture business you want to start.
• Step 2: Narrow down land and secure the boundaries of it. Make sure you close the lease agreement.
• Step 3: Do deep research on the market to identify the requirements you need to cater to.
• Step 4: Do a calculation of different aspects of your agribusiness. This could include the economic viability of the business, commodities you are going to trade or what role you need to take up in order to tap into future opportunities.
• Step 5: When you are done with the above steps, now is the time to identify the resources you need to for the production.
• Step 6: Register your business
• Step 7: Make a strategy to secure the credit for your business. Unless you have a strong foundation of credit, it is very difficult to kickstart an agribusiness.

Agriculture loans in India

An agribusiness loan is a type of overdraft that can be used for farming and other agriculturally related operations that require working capital. 

Farmers in India can typically apply for low-interest agricultural loans. Repayment conditions for agricultural loans vary from lender to lender. The loan can be repaid in monthly, yearly, or biannual payments.

Uses of Agribusiness loans

• Purchasing agricultural and irrigation machinery
• Buying cattle and livestock
• Purchase of agricultural land
• Storage and warehousing expenses
• Marketing expenses
• Transportation costs
• Managing day-to-day operations

Eligibility Criteria for an Agriculture Business Loan

• The primary applicant must be aged between 18 – 70 years old.
• Applicant should use the loan credit for the cultivation of the farmland.

Documents required to avail of an Agriculture Loan

• ID proof – PAN card/ Aadhar card/ Ration card/ Driving license/ Voter ID
• Address proof – Bank statement/ 3 months utility bill/ Ration card/ Driving license/ Passport
• Land ownership proof.

Let’s see what are the different components of an Agriculture Business Plan.

Closing Words  

It should go without saying that planning your farm business is a major task. But, don’t let it deter you. 

When drafting the plan, your mission statement and goals should come first. After that, go on to strategy creation and market research. You can then describe how you’ll carry out your plan after that. You will market your products to your customers in this manner. You must identify your target customers at this point in your agriculture business strategy. 

Hence, when creating a plan for your farm business, go step by step. And ensure that you don’t miss anything. Just follow the steps mentioned in this article. Happy Farming!

What business can I start with agriculture?

Every business in agriculture holds a key to profits. If you are not sure which business to start with then, here’s a list of businesses you can consider:  1. Organic Farming 2. Organic Fertilizer 3. Poultry Farming 4. Dairy Farming 5. Garlic Farming 6. Lavender Farming 7. Gourmet Mushrooms Farming 8. Flower Business 9. Fertilizer Distribution 10. Mushroom Farming 11. Sunflower Farming 12. Hydroponic Retail Store Business 13. Bamboo Farming 14. Willows Farming

Which agriculture business plan example is most profitable?

When we talk about profitability, Dairy farming has an exceptional potential to become most profitable. Its not just the milk but other products like manure are in high demand.

How to start an agriculture loan application process?

You can start your agriculture loan application process by duly filling out all the details and submitting the application form to the bank while attaching all the necessary documentation. 

What is the online application procedure for agriculture loans?

When applying for a loan online, you must fill out the application form and upload it along with the required documents on the bank’s website.

Who can be categorized as small and marginal farmers?

Any farmer who owns less than 2.5 acres of irrigated land or 5 acres of non-irrigated land falls under the small and marginal farmer category.

Can women avail of agriculture loans in India?

The Indian government encourages women to avail of agriculture loans by offering special schemes for women borrowers.

Who is eligible to apply for an agriculture loan in India?

All categories of farmers, including small and marginal farmers, tenant farmers and sharecroppers, are all eligible to apply for agriculture loans.

How do you write an agricultural business plan?

You just need the follow the below-mentioned steps to make an agricultural business plan

Step 1: Business statement 

Start with a mission statement. The why should be clear. This includes what your business is all about and what it will do. Include the business identity and values.

Step 2. Details of your business

Highlight all important details of your business. Everything right from the location to the date when you’ll start operations.

Step 3: Competition Analysis

Analyse the market. It will help you to strategize better. Gather information about your competitors. Do a SWOT analysis. 

Step 4: Business Strategy

Create a marketing strategy, that aligns with your business statement and values. 

Step 5: Finances

Assess your financial standing and project future. Based on that apply for a loan

Step 6: Management Summary

Highlight your business achievements. 

How do I start my own agricultural startup?

It’s pretty straightforward to start an agricultural startup in India. Follow the below-mentioned steps:

Step 1: Competition Analysis 

Do a proper competition analysis. This will help you to make a good business plan.

Step 2: Arranging the Funds

Consider taking a loan or arrange the funds to kickstart the business.

Step 3: Register your Business

It is the first and foremost step that you should take. Registering your business will help you to take advantage of various government initiatives or schemes.

Step 4: Marketing your Business

Mow market your business. Make a marketing strategy and stick to it. It will reap results for you.

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• Best 30+ Business Ideas for Women Entrepreneurs in India
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• 70+ Best RBI Approved Loan Apps In India [2023]
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Agriculture Farm Business Plan Example

Published Jul.25, 2013

Updated Apr.24, 2024

By: Cynthia Turner

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Table of Content

Agriculture business plan for starting your own business

Farming and agriculture business is not as easy as it seems. An even difficult step is to plan how to write a business plan for agriculture. Whether it is a Christmas tree farm business plan or an organic fertilizer business plan , you need to put real effort into planning each and every aspect of your agriculture business plan . To become successful, you should know the ways to operate your enterprise efficiently. You should know your revenue and cash position. You also need to forecast your crop rotations.

We have here provided a detailed business plan so that you can avoid any inconvenience in making a plan for yourself. No matter if you want to make a fish farm business plan or fountain pepper farm business plan , hydroponics farm business plan , or even an aquaponics farm business plan , this sample business plan agriculture template will help you.

A well-formed business plan of agriculture will help your agriculture business plan grow and generate the revenue that you dream of. It will help in managing your business in hard times and will also improve the chances of getting loans from the government for your business. So, if are thinking of creating a business for a bank loan , check out this template.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

The Old Maple Way will be a registered farm in New York, US. The business will aim to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to its customers. Along with it, we provide high-quality dairy products. Instead of competing with other farms in town, we will mainly focus on the quality and pricing of our products.

In any business plan agriculture project, the aims and goals should be clear. Instead of looking for an online business plan expert , you can write your business plan exact like agriculture business plan examples available online.

2.2 Management of Agriculture

The Old Maple Way Farm will be managed by James Celery. He will look into all the operations going on the farm. For his assistance, three managers will work with him. These managers will be trained for a month before starting their jobs. As per this agriculture business plan pdf, James will hire some highly experienced farmers who will look after the growth and management of fruits and vegetables. James will ensure the quality of production himself.

2.3 Customers of Agriculture

Customers are the backbone of every business. If you know the right audience for your agriculture business , you will be able to achieve your target. You will get the idea of how to run your agriculture business plan if you understand your customers. The main customers for the agriculture business will be the following:

• Export to Foreign Markets
• Domestic Hotels and Restaurants
• Domestic Food Companies

2.4 Business Target

The main goal of Old Maple Way Farm is to produce high-quality products for the people. We do not compromise on the hygiene and our team takes care of it.  The most important thing matter to us is our customers’ satisfaction.

Here are our targets:

• Our primary target is to become the most loved farm by people within the next 3 years of our launch.
• Our secondary target is to increase the net profit every month.

Landlord Business Plan Writing

Company summary, 3.1 company owner.

The owner of the Old Maple Way will be James Celery. James had a dream of starting his own agriculture business plan since he was a teenager. He wanted to produce high-quality products that do not contain harmful chemicals.

3.2 Why the farm is being started?

When James was asked why he is interested in starting a farm, he said he wanted to produce chemical-free and organic products for the people. He says that nowadays, it is difficult to find something that is purely organic and chemical-free.

Companies and farms are using harmful chemicals to increase their production. Due to it, they have ignored the quality and only focus on the quantity of production. To produce pure products, he planned to start a farm of his own. He further added that he wants to produce products that are affordable and easy to buy.

3.3 How the Farm will be started?

In a business plan for agriculture, you should mention the steps to start a farm. When you know how to make a business plan for agriculture, your agriculture business  will be successful. The agriculture export business plan includes all the necessary steps needed to start an agriculture business. To start a farm, you need the right techniques and ideas. Before starting a farm, you need to consider these essential steps:

Know your Niche

The first and most important step before starting the agriculture business  is to identify your niche. Without deciding the niche, you cannot start a healthy business.

Research Market

Once you have decided on your niche, you need to do market research. For instance, you have planned to grow a specific fruit, so to make the business successful, you should know who will buy your product. Making research on the market will let you know about your competitors and how will you sell your product.

If you are interested in particular fruit, vegetable or product, first learn more about the local market.

Find the Right Land

Once you have decided what product you are going to plant, you need to take the next step, i.e, deciding the land.

If you are starting at a low budget, you can take land on lease. But if you have sufficient investment to start, you can buy your land. If you start the farm on your land, you will have complete control of your farm. But at the same time, there will be more risk factors of financial loss.

In the sample of an agricultural business plan, you will find more detailed steps on how to start an agriculture business  depending upon the type of farm you want to start.

In agriculture service business plan, you should mention all the services and products that your farm will produce. In the business plan agriculture pdf and business plan for agriculture available online. You will find the services that farms offer. Our products include the following:

We will produce fruits that are chemical-free and pure. We believe in producing organic products. Unlike other farms, we do not use any chemical that increases the quantity.

We will produce 100% organic vegetables. Our main focus is on quality and our customer satisfaction.

Cereals & Grains

We will also produce export-quality cereals and grains.

Dairy Products

We will also be offering two dairy products (milk and butter) to further supplement our sales.

20 Highly Profitable Agricultural Farm Business Ideas

If you are an entrepreneur willing to start an agriculture farm business, the following 20 agriculture farm business ideas can come in handy for your business venture.

Growing Mushrooms

Mushroom is a very popular Unlike various other crops, mushrooms can grow in less than a month. It is ready to be harvested in just about 21 days. This is the reason mushrooms have a high profit margin. Often new entrepreneurs are restless to harvest and sell their crops. So, if you too are one such impatient entrepreneur then mushrooms won’t make your wait too long to be ready. You can sell them in 3 weeks time from d date of cultivation.

• Mushroom farming comprises of 6 stages- first you need to compost; next spawn; case; pin and finally crop it.
• The soil of your farming land must be suitable for growing mushrooms. If this suits your soil then this is the best crop to grow. Some soils only support specific mushroom cultivation. The environment also plays a significant factor.
• You can aim to sell the produce in the local markets and also trade them. There are various countries that use mushrooms in their everyday meals. If your land in near such countries, where mushrooms are a favorite among the masses, then this is the best crop to cultivate in your farming land. Also, the convenience of export can take your mushroom business to far off markets as well.

Potato Farming

This is a very common vegetable. Yet, you should consider this as potato cultivation is greatly rewarding in many ways. Potato is consumed in meals almost daily by people both at home as well as in canteens. It is yummy, simple and very nutritious. The demand for potato is so high that even if there are other near-by farming areas growing potatoes, you still can produce it and benefit largely.

• There are a large variety of potatoes, so check the soil and the market, in order to decide which potato you should cultivate in your land. You can opt for the sweet potatoes or Irish potato farming. They are quite popular across the globe. Furthermore, they can be sold as vegetables directly and can also be sold in the processed form.
• You can choose bulk potato farming and process them if you have the capital and equipment. Potato chips and French fries are savory snacks loved by all. You can never go wrong with potato business as it ensures a high profit margin.
• You can also choose to sell potato seeds. This is an excellent money-spinning business idea. Get in touch with local, national and international potato cultivators to sell potato seed tubes and make a flourishing agriculture business out of it.

Spice Production

With the widespread knowledge about the health benefits hidden in various spices, household cooking as well as commercial restaurants have started using spices in their food in daily basis around the world. Furthermore, the boost in flavor and the pleasant aroma that come from adding spices to cuisines has made spices a favorite ingredient in the kitchen. The high demand and being a very costly product, spices are a great option for agriculture farm business plan. Spice cultivation can churn a lot of money making farming a flourishing business opportunity.

• There are a large variety of spices available such as cardamom, black pepper, nutmeg, cumin, etc. You have a lot of agriculture farming options when it comes to spices.
• You can choose to start farming the spice as per the popularity in your locality.
• Spices can be used in food either whole, sun dried, powdered, paste or even in liquid form. You can sell the whole spice. You can also extract the oils from the spices and sell it in bottles.
• You can plan to grow either a single type of spice or multiple ones depending on your soil. There are different spices that grow in different seasons. You can also opt to grow a spice rarely cultivated in your state and reap huge profits.

Cashew nut agriculture production

Cashew nuts a type of dry fruit that is widely popular across the globe. It is consumed mostly as a savory snack with salt and other spices. You can sell them raw, as well as in processed form. Cashew nut processing entails 4 simple stages. It starts with cleaning the nuts, they roasting them, followed by drying and finally removing the peel.

• Cashew nuts are highly nutritious, boosts energy and fiber in the body. Hence, demand for cashew nuts is quite high globally. You can earn huge capital by producing cashew nuts in your farm land.
• Processed cashew nut sale can get you high profits if you can ally with wholesalers near your land and draw in a fixed cashew nut supply. Wholesalers will sell you the raw cashew nuts at a low cost. You can process the cashew and make profit.
• The medicinal value of cashew nuts has made cashew nut farming a highly lucrative business.

Poultry farming

Chicken is the particular poultry bird raised to the highest number. Gone are the days when households had a few chickens in their backyard to serve their need for eggs and meet. Currently, poultry farming is a huge money-making business that has made its mark internationally. Poultry farming being a lucrative venture has led to the birds being injected with harmful chemicals and are reared in large number without proper hygiene. This has resulted in the rise in demand for good quality poultry farms. This can be your opportunity to grab. Strategize to start an excellently well-maintained poultry farm business to give the masses the best quality eggs and meat.

• Eggs and meat being a high source of protein have notched a vital place in the dietary charts for good health. This has made people from all walks of life add eggs to their breakfast and consume a portion of meat regularly. Hence, a magnificent rise in the sales of poultry farms.
• Another way of making gains through poultry farming is selling frozen chicken. You would needs some additional tools and storage facilities incorporated in your farm for this sort of business. Get in touch with the local eateries, fast-food joints, restaurants and hotels to deliver them- frozen chicken. This can be a profitable venture when you have some good contacts established.

Bee-Keeping and Honey-Making Business:

Producing honey by keeping bees in the garden was a personal choice earlier. People passionate about making honey who had a little space in their backyard kept bees. But now, it has turned out to become a huge farming industry that a large number of entrepreneurs take interest in pursuing as an agriculture endeavor. With the heightened honey consumption worldwide, the sales margin has also increased drastically. This has drawn more entrepreneurs in bee farming. The reason for such rise in the demand for honey is because people are switching to honey intake instead of sugar. Honey has been proved very healthy, helps in losing weight and is also used in beauty products. If you desire to start agriculture farm business plan, then this is one of the best choices. Bee-keeping does not require a large farming land nor do you need to invest huge capital. All you require is- some knowledge and training on the basics of keeping bees for agriculture business. There are training schools and experts who teach how to start a honey producing business and also how bees should be monitored. Furnished with such skillful training you can conveniently start farming and run a bee-keeping and honey making business. If you produce honey in your farming area, you can have several prospective clients to sell, such as –

• Sell it to high net-worth person,
• There are hard-working people, fitness conscious people who prefer honey to sugar
• You can buy low-priced top quality honey from dealers, bottle it up and sell it in the market, both in the local as well as global arena.

Herb and Flower Plantation

The best part about herbs and flower plantation is that they can be grown in small quantities. You do not need any skills or expertise to grow them. They can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. Moreover, both hers and flower plants have multiple usages. You can even do a profitable business with dry herbs and flowers. Both are easy to grow, high in demand and lucrative ventures. Furthermore, you can grow both herbs and flowers in the same farming land.  Yes, you will need some appropriate apparatus for good quality plantation results. Adequate water supply, proper sunshine, manure and right method must be followed too. Herbs have a wide range of usages-

• They are a central ingredient in flavoring food
• Used for making beautiful fragrances
• Is majorly bought by the Pharma company
• Are also used in healing centers to help people relax and loose there stress

Flowers too have multiple usages-

• There are edible flowers used in cakes and various cuisines
• They are used in beauty products, to make lipsticks, nail-polish, hair color and so on
• Several fragrances and extracted from flowers, rose, lavender, orchid being popular blooms. In fact, dry flowers are majorly bought by the fragrance company.
• Extensively used for decorating venues
• Flower bouquets, for weddings as well as gifting item is always in trend

Aloe Vera Plantation

Aloe Vera is basically a tropical plant but the good thing about this plant is that, it can be cultivated in dry farming lands as well. Aloe Vera is a profitable agriculture business idea because its medicinal value makes it a highly saleable agriculture product. It can be consumed as well as applied externally. It has lots of vitamins and minerals that are good for heart, immune system, digestion, skin ailments and many more.

Aloe Vera crop is most suitable if your farming land is in a dry area where the climate is mostly warm and humid. This plant doesn’t require much rainfall and doesn’t grow is cold regions. Light sandy type of soil is absolutely befitting for the plantation of aloe Vera agriculture crops.

Aloe Vera plants are best suited for selling globally to the-

• Herbal industry
• Pharma companies

Bamboo Plantation

Bamboos mostly grow in the hilly areas. This is why we most often see bamboo farming in the mountains. The immense uses of bamboos plants have made it a successful agriculture business plan choice for several entrepreneurs. There is no way you can fail with bamboo farming plan as there are always buyers inclined to purchase the raw product and process it to use in various form.

Some of the uses of bamboo plants may be listed as follows-

• Bamboos are strong and flexible. Thus, a very useful construction product. Be it to build roofs, floors, fences etc.
• They are utilized to build various interior decoration items
• Furniture made from bamboo plants are a modern trend
• Best writing papers are made from bamboo fiber
• Various types of musical instruments are also made using bamboos
• Tender Bamboo tips are used in cooking
• Several infectious diseases can be cured through the medicine made from bamboo plants
• In Asia, the chopsticks being used, are mostly made of bamboo

The huge number of uses makes bamboo plantation a very rewarding business.

Coffee & Tea Plantation

Tea and coffee are two drinks that are very popular globally. So, with coffee and tea plantation you can extend your agriculture business plan and earn huge benefits through export. Coffee and tea plantation requires a suitable soil and good amount of rainfall. The rains and dry season must be well defined so that there can be a growing season and a maturing season. You can plan to directly sell the tea leafs and coffee beans or choose to sell the processed product. With the basic plantation and harvesting techniques learnt, and equipped with the processing tools, machinery and staff, you can make flourishing business out of tea and coffee farming. Get in touch with the tea manufacturing industries, restaurants and cafeterias where there is a constant demand for tea leaves and coffee beans.

Cocoa Farming

Take your love for chocolates a step further! Plan on beginning a cocoa agriculture business. It can prove to be a flourishing enterprise. Chocolate is a favorite not only among kids but among all age groups. Relished across the globe, cocoa farming can be hugely profitable agriculture prospect. You can earn huge capital income by exporting the produced cocoa from your farming area. Cocoa is grown mostly in humid tropical region. Its beans are extracted for cocoa solids and cocoa butter. So, in order to begin farming cocoa trees in your land, you first must ensure you have an agriculture land in a humid area, or plan to buy some area. Once you have the suitable soil you can begin with your cocoa plantation business.

• To satisfy chocolate lovers delight, cocoa is added in all sorts of foods, beverages and even fragrances.
• Dark chocolates, chocolate ice-cream, cakes, muffin, cookies, various sweets, deserts, etc., are found everywhere.
• Spas & beauty parlors too use cocoa in their beauty therapies as it’s very good for skin.
• Chocolate consumption is a very delicious and easy way to counter bouts of stress & depression.

So, you have a farming soil and climate suitable for growing cocoa; prepare yourself to turn your passion into a agriculture business venture. Cocoa crops can land for hundreds of years. So follow the proper methods of farming and you can be very rich soon.

Lettuce Plantation

Lettuce has become a very popular farming vegetable for its fresh flavor. Restaurants add it to their salads, burgers, sides, etc. as consumers enjoy the crunchy fresh texture of this leafy vegetable.Additionally, the health benefits in lettuce have also made it a favorite among those fit and active person who are always on the look-out to incorporate healthy greens to their daily meal. Lettuce can be grown in several types of farming soils. Mostly, it is suitable to grow in soils rich in organic matter. The best soils for lettuce are those that can contain good quality of water and also have well made drainage system. As far as the temperature goes, lettuce grows well in fairly cool weather, about 15 degree Celsius. If your agriculture farm business plan space is in a slightly warmer land, you can grow lettuce crops by building a shade. You can go for a soil test before beginning to work on the farming area.

Lettuce crops cannot be stored for a longer period. So, keep connected with nearest markets and eateries. After harvesting the lettuce, you must sell them fresh. Lettuce farming is a rewarding business idea for start-ups.

Fruit Plantation

Various types of fruits are consumed around the globe. You may opt to begin farming any type of fruit that suits the land and climate of your particular region. When the soil is befitting only then you will get a productive yield out of which you can gain revenue.

Peaches, exotic fruits, papaya, berries, mangoes, apples, jackfruit, oranges etc., are some fruit types. You can grow any of these fruits or any other for your agriculture business endeavor depending on your soil suitability.  Most fruits are used for making juices, added to cuisines, incorporated in meals as fruit salads, and beauty treatments. Since fruits can be consumed raw you may plan to market and export them immediately after you harvest the produce. You may build processing equipments to make fruit juices and pack them to sell them anywhere in the world.

Fruits contain various healthy & healing ingredients. Hence, maximum nutritionists & doctors suggest children, adults and the elderly; to consume fruits regularly. The fruit agriculture business is an opportunity you must definitely try out.

Palm Tree Cultivation

This is the crop that gives the most quantity of oil. Due to it high yielding capacity palm tree farming is considered a money-spinning business idea. If you intend to earn on a monthly basis through agriculture business then palm tree cultivation is the best choice for your start-up venture.

Deep, moist and well-drained soils are best suited for farming palm trees. This particular crop requires a humid tropical climate. Throughout the year an even amount of rainfall is essential. When every aspect is satisfactory for palm tree farming then you should start off with it at the earliest.

Palm tree plantation and selling of the palm oils, can aid you to cut down the sale of other oils , in turn enhancing the sale of your business. Those oils that are imported are costly for the local market, thus your palm oil will sell more. It is a win-win situation for both you as well as your buyers. Thus, your business will flourish.

Cotton & Wool Production

Textile firms need wool and cotton at all times. They need it constantly for manufacturing various types of cloths. Therefore, it’s a lucrative business idea for any entrepreneur.

Cotton flower and sheep give cotton and wool respectively. So for cotton crop cultivation you need a suitable land. There may be some basic agriculture methods to be followed, certain tools and apparatus required. Of course you have to invest at the onset but after harvest you can make high business gains from your sales. You can also opt to rear sheep and get wool from them.

An advantageous factor of cotton flower and wool is that you can export them easily. There is not much critical process attached to attain the cotton from flowers and the wool is just shaved off the sheep. Furthermore, unlike fruits and vegetable, cotton and wool can be stored for as longer time span and exported to far-off countries as they do not get damaged. Thus you can plan to earn good capital by national and global export of your cotton and wool.

Rubber Production

Rubber, a stretchy materiel, is in huge demand in the market. This crop plantation can prove to be very rewarding. The innumerable items made from rubber makes it a very suitable farming product as it is sale-able in the worldwide market. For instance- Tires, Bags, etc are made from rubber.

Rubber plants cannot grow in extremely windy and freezing temperature. It needs 5-7 hrs of sunlight per day and adequate rainfall. Porous farming soil which is somewhat acidic having well-drainage is best suited for rubber plantation.

Rubber trees when taken proper care can survive for generations. So, this is a good agriculture business investment indeed.

Cattle Ranch

A very common and popular livestock raising business that includes animals such as cows, calves, ox, donkeys, bulls, etc., are known as a cattle ranch. You can choose to breed a single type of animal or several ones depending on the capital and land you have. It is best to start off with a single type of animal and slowly progress to rearing more types in your farming area. Actually, each type of animal needs to be well taken care of, with the proper food and hygiene maintained in your farming space.

Cattles are reared for multiple purposes, milk, manure, skin, as well as meat. Having a cattle ranch can instantly place you in the international business market if the quality of milk, meat and manure supplied by you if of good quality. With high sales and recognition in the global market you can easily gain huge profits and grow your agriculture business.

Shrimp Business

If you plan to own a land near the coastal region, or rent a riverside area, you can earn cash through shrimp farming. Earlier shrimp was farmed in a smaller quantity, but the rapid growth of consumption worldwide has turned it into a large scale global industry.

Shrimp is high in protein and contains anti-oxidants. A favorite among a large group of people, this is marketed in bulk in several countries. Japan, US, Thailand and China are some countries where shrimp farming is done is large quantity. You can definitely give shrimp farming a shot as success is guaranteed.

Saffron Cultivation

This costly spice is actually very easy to grow in any type of farming area. The reason for saffron being so pricey is the extensive toil that goes into harvesting the crop. Only a few strands of saffron are acquired from a flower.

Saffron is mostly used in cooking, creating beautiful fragrances and in cosmetic products. If you have a fertile agriculture soil suitable for saffron cultivation and reside in a sub-tropical warm region then saffron is the spice you must opt to cultivate in your farming area.

You can market it across the whole world. This expensive spice can churn huge money.

Rosemary Cultivation

Rosemary shrub can be cultivated across the world. It is best suited for region with cool temperatures. It can also handle frost. You can harvest rosemary 2 times per year. It depends on whether you want to harvest it for the leaves or the oil.

Rosemary is most famous for its oils. It has high commercial value for its medicinal and herbal properties.  This is a lucrative business idea and if you reside in a cold region then get a soil test done and you can start off your rosemary cultivation.

Marketing Analysis of agriculture

Business plan for investors.

To make your agriculture business  successful, you need to keep an eye on the market trends as well. If you run a complete analysis of the market, you will get an idea about many things. Understanding the trends and variables will help you in making decisions for your business. The goal of this market research is to understand and get a general idea of the overall market around your farm and how you can adjust to that ecosystem. The marketing plan for agriculture business includes market trends and market segmentation.

5.1 Market Trends

The agriculture industry is a kind of industry that never goes into loss. It continues to evolve with time. Over the past five years, the agricultural industry has grown at an incredible rate. People are now more attracted to buy organic products that are chemical-free and hygienic.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

In agricultural business ideas and agricultural business proposal, the market segmentation is clearly defined. Besides knowing how to start an agricultural business, you need to make a complete analysis of market segmentation for it.

The most important part of a farm business plan is to have an idea of the expected marketing segmentation. In agriculture start up, you should know about the market segmentation. Here is the market segmentation that will be facing our farm:

5.2.1 Foreign Markets

The products that we manufacture will be exported. It will generate the largest part of our revenue.

5.2.2 Domestic Hotels and Restaurants

We will offer our products to restaurants and hotels. Along with fruits and vegetables, we will provide dairy products such as milk and butter to the restaurants in town.

5.2.3 Domestic Food Companies

We will also sell our products to food companies in the domestic markets.

5.3 Business Target

In a community sustained agriculture business plan, the following are our business target

• Building a trustworthy relationship among customers
• Providing high-quality products to customers
• Making an excellent customer care service for our loyal customers
• Recovering the initial investment within two years of launch
• Increase the revenue every year by at least 20%.

5.4 Product Pricing

The prices of the products that Old Maple Way provide are comparable to other farms. We will try to provide better products and customer care to our clients. We will satisfy our customers by providing exceptional services to make as much profit as possible.

Marketing Strategy

When you are starting an agricultural business, you should also know the marketing strategy. No business can grow and become successful without a marketing strategy. No matter how many excellent services you offer, if you do not have customers, it is all in vain. The more people know about your farm and its products, the more they reach out to you.

Nowadays, the best way of marketing is social media marketing. Social platforms are strong, and they are accessible to everyone. A good thing about social media marketing is its low cost. You can reach out to millions of people with online marketing. All the business ideas in agriculture explain the importance of social media marketing and how you can use them to reach out to people.

Along with that, you need a competitive analysis to make a strategy that will make your agriculture business plan successful. You also need some agro processing business ideas as well as a perfect understanding of what is an agricultural business.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• People are not satisfied with the products manufactured by other farms because of the chemicals they use to increase their quantity.
• The products that other farms sell are expensive and everyone cannot afford them.

6.2 Our Strategy

• We will use social media platforms to advertise our products.
• We will make our online presence so that we can reach out to more and more people.
• We will use the advertisements channels in the area to reach out to the people.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 sales yearly, 6.5 sales forecast, personnel plan.

To make your business best agricultural business, you need to make sure that the staff should work as a team. In the agriculture business model, you will find out that the environment of the farm depends on the number and type of staff which should be determined in the initial stages.

7.1 Company Staff

James Celery will be the owner and CEO of the Old Maple Way farm business. The following people will be hired to run the farm:

• 1 Operations Manager
• 2 Deputy Managers
• 8 Farm Workers
• 2 Packaging Helpers
• 1 Accountant

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

Proper planning and execution of the finance help you to maintain a stable budget for the upcoming entire year. To execute farming ideas for profit, you need to manage the finances wisely. In agricultural business plans, all the finances are mentioned.

• Money to buy a land or take it on lease
• The cost of buying and maintaining animals
• The salary of employees
• The cost of buying fruits and vegetables seeds

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 break-even analysis, 8.3 projected profit and loss, 8.3.1 profit monthly, 8.3.2 profit yearly, 8.3.3 gross margin monthly, 8.3.4 gross margin yearly, 8.4 projected cash flow, 8.5  projected balance sheet, 8.6 business ratios.

• How do I make an agricultural business plan? When you look out to sample business plan agriculture farm, you will see the steps to write a business plan. Business plan for agriculture company may not necessarily be long but it should be written in an easily understandable way.
• What is an agriculture farm business plan? It is the farming production, creating a plan for marketing and management of crops and livestock in a profitable way is an agriculture farm business plan. It includes everything such as a detailed business plan for agriculture and an agriculture equipment business plan.
• Which agriculture is most profitable? One of the most profitable agriculture is an agricultural farm. You can start this business by investing a small amount of money. According to the demand of the local public, you can produce the items and sell them.
• Is agriculture farming profitable? Agriculture farming is profitable as it offers a stable revenue. It is one of the fastest-growing agricultural businesses all over the world.

Download example agriculture farming business plan pdf

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12: Business Plans

What is a business plan.

A business plan is a document that helps you to organize and succinctly summarize the vision you have for your business. The plan contains the operational and financial objectives of a business, the detailed plans and budgets showing how the objectives are to be realized.

A good business plan will contain the following:

• Your business vision, mission statement, key values, and goals
• Description of the product(s) you intend to produce
• Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats the business may experience are described
• Production plans
• Marketing plans
• Estimated start-up costs
• Information on your legal structure and management team
• Current financial statements or projected financial statements.
• Resume or brief explanation of your background and relevant experience
• Less than 10 total pages so that people actually read it

Helpful Publications for Writing a Business Plan

General Business Resource Publications:

• Starting an Ag-Business? A Pre-Planning Guide http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2004/Cornell_AEM_eb0408.pdf
• Business Transfer Guide: Junior Generation http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2016/Cornell-Dyson-eb1605.pdf
• Producing a Business Plan for Value-Added Agriculture http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2007/Cornell_AEM_eb0708.pdf
• Business Planning for the Agriculture Sector: A Guide to Business Plan Development for Start-up to Mid-size Operations http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2010/Cornell_ pdf
• Building a Sustainable Business (Sustainable Agricultural Research Education (SARE)Publications) sare.org/publications/business.htm 280 pages of education and practical exercises to guide you through the financial, management, and interpersonal skills needed to start a successful farm business. Order hard copy for $17 or download PDF online for free.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Publications for Specific Commodities:

• Landscape Business Planning Guide http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2003/Cornell_AEM_eb0313.pdf
• Writing a Business Plan: A Guide for Small Premium Wineries http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2002/Cornell_AEM_eb0206.pdf
• Writing a Business Plan: An Example for a Small Premium Winery https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/bitstream/122203/2/Cornell_AEM_eb0207.pdf

Getting Help Writing a Business Plan

40+ SAMPLE Agriculture Business Plan in PDF | MS Word

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Step 1: create an executive summary, step 2: set goals and objectives, step 3: make an introduction, step 4: give a mission statement, step 5: state your company history, step 6: make a competitor analysis and create a plan, share this post on your network, file formats, word templates, google docs templates, excel templates, powerpoint templates, google sheets templates, google slides templates, pdf templates, publisher templates, psd templates, indesign templates, illustrator templates, pages templates, keynote templates, numbers templates, outlook templates, you may also like these articles, 5+ sample investment company business plan in pdf.

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Business Plan Tools for Producers

A business plan is like a road map. It helps you define your ag operation’s core objectives and build a detailed plan for how to achieve them. 

Free business plan bundle for farmers

We want to help make writing your business plan easier. The FCC business plan bundle was designed specifically for farm operations and anyone involved in Canadian agriculture.

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Agribusiness Planning: Providing Direction for Agricultural Firms

Introduction

Future outcomes are a function of today's decisions. Although there is a high degree of randomness and uncertainty associated with the future, you can increase the probability of a successful outcome by planning ahead. This is true in nearly every aspect of our lives, both personal and professional. For those who operate their own businesses, planning becomes increasingly important because the personal and professional aspects become more difficult to untangle. In agricultural businesses, planning may be even more vital because of the inherent uncertainty associated with agricultural production. Some important sources of uncertainty include production risk, price risk, financial (or interest rate) risk, and changes in government programs.

This publication discusses the importance of business planning for agricultural firms—from input suppliers to producers to processors—and describes the steps required to prepare a thorough business plan. The general process of business planning is the same for each type of firm. However, each may have differing individual aspects that affect its plan's contents. Regardless, we present a recommended format that should be useful for all types of agricultural firms as they develop written business plans. We use examples from the wide variety of agribusinesses to provide a broad context to the general theme of business planning.

About the Business Plan

One of the most important documents for any business is their business plan. It is common practice for consultants, lenders, potential business partners, and other business-associated individuals to request a business plan to make a more informed decision concerning their relationship with a business. However, business plans have many more direct benefits for the business owner. The planning process forces owners to systematically consider all facets of the business. In so doing, they become more knowledgeable of the business, the industry, and the market environment in which their business operates. The process also helps to define business goals and to assess the impact that uncertainty may have on future business outcomes. Perhaps most importantly, the written plan provides a well-defined direction for the business. Therefore, it can be used to keep all employees moving toward the common goals established within it.

Completing a business plan can be a time-consuming activity, but well worth the effort. Because businesses operate in an ever-changing environment, the plan should be revisited periodically to be sure that the business is headed in the proper direction or to formally alter the firm's course if circumstances dictate that this is necessary. Again, the systematic review of the business plan forces the owner, and potentially others, to look at the business as a whole and make better-informed decisions.

We provide an example format for you to use as a guide in developing your plan. Notice that there are several topics that should be addressed, corresponding to the four functional areas of management: marketing, production, finance, and human resources. By developing a section for each of these topics, the plan will be easy to follow as you revisit it or as others review it. You should take some liberty as you develop your plan; feel free to customize it in a way that will fit your specific circumstances.

SWOT Analysis

Performing a SWOT analysis , which stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, lays the foundation for the business plan. Four separate SWOT analyses should be performed, each related to one of the four functional areas of management: marketing, production/operations, finances, and human resources.

When assessing strengths and weaknesses, the focus should be internal. Opportunities and threats, on the other hand, should reflect external factors. For example, proximity to a major market, such as a large city, may provide an opportunity to market processed dairy products directly to a restaurant. Threats may take the form of new competitors or changes in agricultural production or environmental policy.

 Performing SWOT analyses is relatively easy. Simply divide a piece of paper into four quarters, label the quarters appropriately, and begin to write your thoughts down.

Example Marketing SWOT Analysis for Carl's Custom Crop Scouting

• Only specialized scouting operation in the county
• 3,700 acres under contract
• No full-time sales person

Opportunities

• Expand operations to include planting and harvesting
• Partner with firm that only plants and harvests crops.
• Genetically modified corn kills insects. Scouting for those pests no longer important.

Because this is the foundation on which the planning process is based, be sure to take a broad perspective. In addition to incorporating the views of at least the owners and managers of the operation, it also might be a good idea to allow all employees, or at least a subset, to provide their perspectives. Some firms may also benefit from allowing professional advisors (such as veterinarians, bankers, nutritionists, etc.) to provide input. Although the top management should develop the plan, you should tap many sources of information. Finally, the raw results of the SWOT analyses might best be presented in an appendix, rather than in each of the four sections related to the functional areas. In the individual sections, a summarized version will suffice.

Example Business Plan Format

The format presented here represents one way to structure the business plan.

Sections of Business Plan

Marketing management, production/operations management, human resources management, financial management.

As noted, it covers the four managerial functional areas. We present the example structure and provide some ideas for what you will want to include in each section. Creating a thorough document the first time through is important. This will make follow-up revisions easier to implement.

The introductory section gives a broad overview and background of the business. Several subsections (outlined below) should be included to provide a thorough overview. However, if there's something that you feel isn't applicable to your business, feel free to omit it from your plan.

The first page should give the name of the document, the firm's name, and the names of all those involved in developing the plan. Dating the plan so that you can remember when it was developed or updated is also wise.

Executive Summary

This section, while appearing at the front of the business plan, is actually the last piece developed. Here you should present the most important information, which may include the firm's goals and objectives and associated target dates. Basically, the executive summary provides a concise overview of the business plan.

Table of Contents

The table of contents should provide the titles of all section headings in the plan and the page numbers on which the sections begin.

Vision and Mission Statements

These relatively brief statements tell the reader why the business is in operation and where the management team, or owner(s), plans to be in the future. The vision statement should tell the reader what business the firm is in, or plans to enter, and what the most important business goals are. That is, it should tell where the firm is going.

We have provided a few example vision statements for you to use as a guide when developing yours:

Example Vision Statements

Agchoice farm credit.

AgChoice Farm Credit will be the first choice for financial services that help customers succeed.

To build the world's first truly global securities market. ... A worldwide market of markets built on a worldwide network of networks ... linking pools of liquidity and connecting investors from all over the world ... assuring the best possible price for securities at the lowest possible cost.

Northwest Airlines

To build together the first choice airline and global alliance network with the best people each committed to exceeding our customers' expectations every day

Whenever dairy farmers have a need they should think first of DeLaval. We aim to always be there, always be available, always work on their behalf.

Note that some are from very different industries. Regardless, they present a common theme of what their respective companies want their firms to be.

The mission statement provides a succinct overview of the firm's operation, including its collective values, its unique circumstances or industry position, what product(s) it sells, and why it is in business. As the business evolves, the mission statement can be adapted to reflect the changing face of the firm.

The mission statement can provide more detailed information than the vision statement. We have provided some example mission statements that allow you to see how other firms— although maybe very different in nature—have defined their missions.

Example Mission Statements

Agway cooperative.

AGWAY is a farmer-owned business dedicated to improving the profitability of its members. We achieve profitability for our members by being the most effective partner on every farm we serve, by adding value to what farmers produce, and by using our capabilities to win non-farm customers.

Land O' Lakes

We are a market- and customer-driven cooperative committed to optimizing the value of our members' dairy, crop, and livestock production.

To enable people and businesses throughout the world to realize their full potential.

To help practically anyone trade practically anything on earth.

Some are more specific than others. At a minimum, the mission statement should tell the reader why you are in business.

Business Organization

Briefly describe how the business is legally organized (for example, proprietorship, partnership, or corporation). Include the names and titles of the firm's managers (or board of directors). This section should be quite short.

Overview of Current Business

In general, the business plan is concerned with the firm's future. Here, however, you should review the firm's past and fully describe its present position. Although a business start-up may not have much to reveal, documenting the present situation is important. In doing so, it will be easier to document the firm's history as you revise the plan.

An overview of the firm's past helps to set the context of how the firm has evolved into its current form. This may be particularly useful if the plan is to be used to secure financing because the past reveals something about how the firm has been managed over time. A structured chronology can serve as an outline for this subsection.

Example Firm Chronology

“Hanks' Harvesting" formed as partnership between Jerry and Ed Hanks.

Harvested 4,300 acres of corn for grain and chopped 2,200 acres of corn silage.

Purchased a new combine and a used chopper.

Harvested 8,700 acres of corn for grain and 5,300 acres of corn silage.

January 2002

Contracted for 10,500 corn grain acres and 7,800 corn silage acres for fall 2002.

Began to investigate custom planting services as a possible expansion of current operations.

The narrative in this section should also provide an overview of how the business has been financed. Furthermore, discuss how profits, equity, and other important financial measures have changed over time.

Next, describe the present situation of the firm. You should provide information related to business location (include pictures if you like), current sales, assets, inventories, geographic market area, number of employees, and any other information you feel is appropriate in describing your current business. Upon reading this section, one should have a snapshot picture of your firm's current status.

This and the three sections to follow provide the meat of the plan. These give the reader a thorough understanding of the firm's present and future. In the marketing management section, you should address several key factors, each in its own subsection.

Marketing SWOT Analysis

Provide a brief overview of the main results of the Marketing Management SWOT analysis. Let the reader know what the most important results were.

Products and/or Services Produced

Here, describe your product(s) or service(s) specifically. If you are in the custom heifer raising business, for example, your statement may be something similar to “We raise heifers for dairy producers." If you are operating a dairy farm, your statement may be much more detailed because it is recommended that you include both the products you produce and the products you sell, listed separately. For example, you may produce corn silage, but may not sell it. Remember also that you sell bull calves and cull cows. These may not be your major enterprise, but should be listed as products sold.

Remember that differentiating your product may be an important aspect of your marketing strategy. While this is difficult to do with a commodity, it's not impossible. For example, maybe you feed for high-butterfat percentage to increase the price received for your milk. It's also possible that you operate an organic turkey farm in an attempt to extract higher market prices. There are also those who market kosher meats and dairy products. These types of efforts should be included here as part of your marketing efforts.

Industry Overview and Position of Firm

Describe your industry and how you fit into it. This may not be too difficult to write if you operate under contract production because this is specified in the contract. It may also be relatively simple for anyone producing a commodity and selling it by the typical means (such as selling corn to a grain elevator or hogs to a pork processor). A custom business operator may have a more difficult time defining the industry and describing how the firm fits. However, this section is important for at least two reasons. First, it forces the planner to analyze the industry and determine the firm's relative position in terms of competitive advantages. Second, it provides important evaluative information for “outsiders" to better understand the business and its relationship with the industry.

In describing the industry, include as much information as you feel is necessary to define the firm and the market. Consider including the following: volume sold (in production units -- this may be, for example, hundredweights if describing the dairy industry, head if describing beef, or acres scouted if describing a custom crop scouting operation), total annual sales in dollars, trends in industry sales, competitors, new marketing opportunities, prevailing prices, and how prices are determined (for example, cash market, contract price, cost-plus). Also, describe the customer. Who is purchasing your product? What type of person is likely to buy your product? Again, those selling an undifferentiated commodity may have little to write. Those selling custom services or, even more importantly, those engaged in marketing agricultural products directly to the consumer may need to more thoroughly describe the customer base. This will help you better define your target market.

Managerial Expertise

Here, take stock of the total managerial expertise used by the firm. What marketing-related special knowledge do the managers possess? Is there one manager who has particular expertise in marketing? Thinking beyond the organization is wise; those in production agriculture have other sources of knowledge that may exist outside of the firm. For example, consultants may be available to provide information related to the current economic situation and outlook. Also, the Extension system and the USDA provide a great deal of information and data on agricultural prices and marketing.

Marketing Strategy

This is where you lay out your plan and future expectations, which are founded on all of the preceding information in this section. Here, you should describe any marketing opportunities you face and how you plan to take advantage of those. What advertising or promotional programs will you undertake? How will you distribute your product? How will you determine if your marketing plan is successful? For this, you should have clearly defined targets. For example, “We will market at least 2.5 million pounds of milk each year." You may also want to set targets for number of customers, market share, or any other measure(s) that you might use to determine whether your firm has been successful in marketing.

Finally, be sure to employ any appropriate risk-management tactics. In marketing, you will want to manage risks associated with input and output prices. Can you contract for some inputs to lock-in a particular price? If processing on the farm, have you contracted with a retailer or wholesaler to be sure that someone will take your product? In production agriculture, the farm owner or manager should understand and analyze futures and options markets as tools to manage price volatility. You should also understand any relevant government programs such as Loan Deficiency Payments (LDPs) that affect your price.

(We differentiate “production" and “operations" based on whether the firm's product is a good or a service. However, in many cases, we use “production" to denote either case.)

Through the production of goods and services the firm generates profits. Therefore, assessing the production/ operations process and making plans for the future is vitally important. This may be particularly important in cases where a farm is planning to expand or where a change in business enterprises is to occur.

Production SWOT Analysis

Provide a summary of the SWOT analysis for production/operations. This may be the most important area to gather input from employees, who are likely the ones most closely associated with daily production. Therefore, their insights could provide a valuable additional perspective.

Overview of Productive Assets

Outline what productive assets are necessary to make your product or provide your service. The following deserve particular attention:

• Other Facilities (particularly if on-farm processing is involved)
• Equipment and Machinery
• Materials and Supplies

Focus on what the firm currently owns, the quality of those assets, and how others will be obtained, if needed. Only discuss the resources needed. Save any discussion of financing these assets for the Financial Management section.

Here again, note the special expertise held by management in the area of production/operations. For example, is the herdsman on a dairy farm trained in dairy science? Does the crops manager have a background in agronomy, soil science, or other related field? How many years of experience in this type of position does this person have?

Production/Operations Performance

Describe your current production practices. How much do you produce? When do you produce it? You may want to develop a visual approach to help tell this story. A time line could help to describe when products are made or services are sold. The more complex the business is, the more useful a visual might be.

Regulatory Considerations

Government regulations affect production in many industries. This is particularly the case in production agriculture. If producing agricultural products, be sure that you are complying with all relevant regulations. These include, but may not be limited to:

• Manure management
• Soil conservation
• Worker Safety
• Inspections of the product and of the production facilities

You can gain information on relevant policies and regulations from business consultants, Penn State Extension, agricultural cooperatives, and government agency Web sites.

Production/Operations Strategy

Now that you have laid out your current production practices and defined some firm and industry trends as they relate to some important benchmark measures, it is time to describe your production- or operations-related plans. As you do this, be sure to set specific production goals, outline potential changes in enterprises or production practices, and describe how you plan to locate and purchase inputs. The following list of questions may be useful to you as you develop this section. Again, not all are relevant for all types of operations. Also, you may think of others that should be addressed.

• How long will your current productive assets be of use? When do leases on land and equipment expire? How soon can you expect to replace important machinery and equipment?
• Where can you find other inputs, such as feed, in the future—particularly if you are expanding your operation?
• Should you consider hiring a custom operator to perform a portion of the production tasks?
• Are there new production practices or machinery you should consider adopting?
• How many units of product do you want to sell over your planning period? Provide specific targets and a time line, if appropriate.
• Do you need to develop a nutrient management plan or update an existing one? Are there other environmental plans that should be developed?
• If expanding, how will new construction or other changes affect output? How will these changes affect your resources? Will you be able to operate in a timely manner without affecting the quality of your product(s)?
• Are there new enterprises that should be explored?

One of the most important—yet most often overlooked—inputs is labor. The competency of your human resources may dictate how successfully your business will perform. Use this section to outline your current human resource (HR) policies, how these may change over the planning period, and what you or other managers may need to do to improve HR management.

Human Resources SWOT Analysis

Provide the reader with the summarized results of the human resource management SWOT analysis. This is another point at which the insights of the employees may be particularly useful. Their perception of your HR policies could be substantially different from yours.

Organizational Chart and Related Information

Begin by providing a current organizational chart. When doing so, you should follow very distinct guidelines. However, our example chart (Figure 1) should provide enough guidance to help you if you've not yet developed one. If your organization is particularly large, you may lump several individual positions into one box, as long as the box describes those positions. In Figure 1, for example, the three parlor operators might be represented by only one box if their job descriptions are the same.

The organizational chart allows the employees to see their position in the firm. Also, the chart should show that each person has only one immediate supervisor. We cannot stress this point enough. Defining the managerial structure so that employees directly answer to only one person is very important. Often the partners who own the farm tend to supervise employees together. This results in a situation in which the employee may get conflicting directions. If the employee has only one direct supervisor, this situation can be avoided.

Overview of Current Policies

Whether formalized or not, your firm has HR policies. While we encourage you to formalize those if they are not already, you should complete this section with the most accurate information you have at your disposal. Think about the following individual points as you consider what you would like to include in this section. Also, remember to include information regarding all employees of the business, including the management team.

• Compensation and Benefits (Incorporation of this information may dictate that a portion of the plan be labeled as confidential. Thus, only certain members of the ownership or management team would have rights to view this type of information. you are trying to hide information.)—How much do you pay your employees? At what intervals are they paid (for example, weekly or monthly)? What sort of benefits package is offered? Does the package differ by type of employee? Do you have an incentive plan for employees? Are owner/ operators paid a salary or do they capture retained earnings?
• Job Descriptions and Recruiting — Does each position have a written job description? Are these used to assess the suitability of potential employees? How do you recruit new workers/managers? Provide written copies of job announcements and descriptions in an appendix.
• Training and Standard Operating Procedures —What training is provided for new employees? What training is provided when employees assume new responsibilities? Are common task sequences documented with written standard operating procedures (SOPs)?
• Performance Evaluation and Performance Feedback —Is there a formal mechanism for evaluating workers' performances? If so, how frequently is performance assessed? How does the employee receive the manager's assessment? Are salaries or wages based at least partially on these evaluations?

Penn State Extension provides materials to help develop job descriptions, SOPs, and other important HR documents. Business consultants with expertise in HR management should also be used in many instances to help the business owner develop the best HR policies possible for that particular business.

Human Resource Strategy

Once you have outlined your production and marketing plans, you must evaluate the ramifications of those plans for the firm's human resources. Will the plan require any shift in HR policy? If so, how? For example, an expanding custom heifer grower may need to hire a full-time nutritionist to be sure that the heifers are receiving a properly balanced ration as they develop. The best way to reflect these changes may be to provide one or more additional organizational charts showing how the organization is expected to change over time. In the text, be specific as to what changes are to be made and when.

Also, be sure to describe any changes you plan to make in your HR management. If you don't have formal job descriptions, standard operating procedures, or evaluations, for example, you should consider putting those in writing. Also indicate if the plan will require additional training of existing and new employees. Finally, if expanding, describe where you might find potential employees.

This section is the most crucial from a potential lender's perspective. Here, you should tie together the details in the rest of the plan in terms of how they affect the firm's financial performance. Ultimately, operating a business is about making money. Therefore, this section needs to allow the reader to assess where the firm is and where it intends to go over the planning horizon. Although you should provide current and projected future (“pro forma") financial statements with the plan, they might be best presented in an appendix. This section should be mostly a verbal explanation of the business's finances, with perhaps a few tables to highlight important information.

Because this section is so important, especially if financing is being pursued, we highly recommend that you work with a business consultant, accountant, or other financial advisor to develop it.

Financial SWOT Analysis

Perform a SWOT analysis of the firm's financial position. Unlike some other areas, your frontline workers may not have as much to provide in this analysis. However, depending on the firm's “culture," (the accepted values and norms under which it operates. Some firms may be quite “laid back," allowing employees a good bit of decision-making authority. Others might be more “straightlaced" following a well-established set of rules, whether written or unwritten) you may still want to invite their input.

Review of Current Financial Situation

Here you should highlight the important points of your financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and statement of cash flows). Focus on the positive aspects, while not ignoring the negative. You do not want to provide a potential lender with an impression that you are trying to hide information. It might help if you work with a financial advisor to develop this narrative.

Provide a table of current outstanding debt. Include the terms of the debt, the lender(s), the principle amount(s), your payment amount(s), how frequently you make payments, and how many payments remain. Furthermore, a table of financial ratios would be useful in providing a snapshot view of the firm. You will want to provide measures of profitability, financial efficiency, liquidity, and solvency. Although your financial advisor may have some specific advice, we provide a few commonly used measures, which are defined in the glossary:

Commonly Used Financial Measures

Profitability.

• Rate of return on assets
• Rate of return on equity
• Profit margin

Financial Efficiency

• Asset turnover ratio
• Operating expense ratio
• Current ratio
• Working capital to value of production ratio
• Leverage ratio
• Debt to asset ratio

Provide other sources of managerial decision-making input. For many farm owners, this is the most difficult facet to monitor. Using a business consultant, a CPA, or some other financial advisor may increase farm profits as you allow some of these individuals to help analyze financial data and make recommendations for you to review.

Financial Strategy

At this point, you need to set forth your plan for financing the firm's operations over the planning period. Where will you get money when you need to purchase a new truck or replace your barn, for example? Present the highlights of the pro forma financial statements as discussed earlier. Also, you should relate your financial plan to your production, marketing, and human resources plans. A time line relating events planned in the other sections to financing may help to clarify this section's message for the reader.

In your discussion, be sure to let the reader know how you will assess financial performance. As in other sections, be specific. Will you require that net income grow at 8 percent per year, for example? Set goals for the measures you have used previously to describe the health of the business. Therefore, you should aim for specific values for your selected measures of profitability, financial efficiency, solvency, and liquidity. Also, do not forget that an information management system should be in place so that the financial data you gather is accurate. (An information management system (IMS) is any system that you can use to track important information regarding financial performance, in this case. Actually, you should have a system of information management that provides high-quality information for each of the four facets of management. This might include a production record-keeping system (DHIA for dairy farms), an accounting system, an inventory list, employee time sheets, and so forth.)

You should be realistic with your plans, yet push yourself. Stated differently, you should plan to succeed, not just survive. If your business is to be viable over the long term, then you should generate returns to grow the business, grow equity, improve your credit-worthiness, and otherwise improve the odds of operating this business well into the future. If the plan covers a major shift in the business's operations, such as a large expansion, then special care is needed to discuss how cost overruns might be handled, when production will begin in a new facility, when debt repayment will commence, and so forth. Although the planning process should reduce the amount of uncertainty associated with such a change, it can never eliminate uncertainty. Therefore, it should be noted that insurance may be used to protect the firm against financial losses that may be associated with operating a business. Be sure to define your insurance needs in this section of the business plan.

Uncertainty should also be accounted for in your financial forecasts. Let the reader know what assumptions you have made when developing the proforma statements. Also, some sensitivity analyses would be useful to show how your statements would change if output or input prices were different from your projections. If appropriate, set forth some contingency plans to be enacted if certain undesired outcomes are realized. For example, if milk production suffers from a hot, dry summer, you should have a contingency plan in place to help cash flow the business until production increases. For example, such a plan might include a revolving line of credit with the local bank.

The body of your business plan should have a final section in which you again tell the reader the highlights of the plan. Highlight the most important features of your plan. Restate your most important goals and briefly mention how you will achieve them. Here again, a time line might help to state what your goals are and when your firm expects to reach them. Remember, you have already provided many details, so keep this section relatively brief, referring the reader to earlier material where necessary.

In this section, draw focus on what your plan means for future profitability, efficiency, liquidity, and solvency. That is, all of your plans will likely affect the farm's financial status. Because this is a business plan, and businesses continue to operate only when profitable, this should be the major thrust. However, remind the reader of what may happen if your assumptions, particularly those related to input and output prices and quantities produced, are not realized. Refer to your contingency plans and sensitivity analyses.

If the business is a family-run operation, as many farms and other small agricultural businesses are, then you may want to include some family goals in your plan. Although you should try to separate family issues from business issues to the extent possible, completely divorcing the two is not always possible. Highlight where business success coincides with success in meeting the family's goals.

Finally, a concluding paragraph should draw the plan together and reinforce for the reader that your firm is committed to working collectively toward the plan's goals. Leave no doubt in the reader's mind that, barring detrimental outside influences, the goals of the plan will be reached.

Throughout this publication, we have pointed out some things that you may want to include in appendices. For example, one appendix might contain your financial statements, both actual and proforma, to which you refer in the Financial Management section. You may also want to include the formal job descriptions you have prepared. Use appendices as you feel appropriate. If you would like to include something that may not be relevant for the body of the manuscript to further describe your operation, then include it as an appendix. To differentiate them, give each new appendix a unique name such as, “Financial Statements" or “SWOT Analysis Results."

One of the most important things you can do to ensure success is to plan for the future. The planning process may take many hours to complete, especially if it is to provide a thorough representation of the firm. However, it will be a valuable asset as it forces a review of the firm and the industry, unites the collective labor force of the firm to work toward a set of common goals, and allows outsiders to gain a detailed understanding of the firm's past, present, and future.

Business planning is not applicable only to large firms. Smaller agricultural businesses, which are often family owned, stand to benefit at least as much from planning as do larger firms. In agriculture, especially agricultural production, the small compete directly with the large. Business planning will help firms of all sizes to better understand their relative positions in the agricultural industry. It will also help the owner to set goals and devise strategies for reaching those goals.

Asset Turnover Ratio

The percentage of total assets earned as gross income. A higher number is generally associated with higher profits. Mathematically, this equals gross income divided by average total productive assets.

Balance Sheet

A financial statement that shows total assets, total liabilities, and owners' equity at a specific point in time. The liabilities and owners' equity represent claims on the firm's assets.

Business Planning

The process of analyzing the firm's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, using that information to develop organizational goals, and crafting strategies to reach those goals.

Competitive Advantages

Refers to particular strengths of the firm relative to those of other firms. Some examples are being the first firm in an area to provide custom heifer raising, having a manager with strong direct-marketing skills, or having superior land for growing crops.

Contingency Plans

These are strategies for dealing with potential outcomes that differ from those assumed in the initial planning process. These are most frequently associated with unfavorable outcomes.

Contract Production

Refers to any situation in which the farmer grows crops or livestock for a specific firm under terms negotiated in a contract.

The system of offices located around individual states that provides information and education to farm managers and other individuals. In Pennsylvania, this is Penn State Extension.

Current Ratio

Measures the ability of the firm to pay its current liabilities with its current assets. A ratio greater than one indicates that the firm is liquid and able to cover its current liabilities. Mathematically, this is equal to current assets divided by current liabilities. Current assets include cash and other assets that will be converted to cash or used up within one year. Current liabilities are those that are payable within one year.

Custom Business

Any firm offering to perform services for a farm that would replace those already provided by the farm's labor. Some examples include crop scouting services, custom planting and harvesting, or custom heifer growing.

Debt to Asset Ratio

Indicates the percentage of total assets owned by creditors. For example, a debt to asset ratio of 0.5 means creditors own 50 percent of the farm's assets. Mathematically, this is total debt divided by total assets.

Income Statement

Provides a review of revenues and expenses over a given period of time, often a year. This may also be referred to as a profit and loss statement, earnings statement, or an operating statement.

Leverage Ratio

This represents total farm debt as a percentage of equity. If this ratio is greater than one, for example, then the business is financed by debt more than by equity. Mathematically, this is total debt divided by equity.

Mission Statement

Provides a summary of why the business is in operation. This may include the firm's common values, an overview of products or services, target markets, or other information to provide a clear picture of the firm's purpose.

Represents the difference between gross income and total expenses. Mathematically, this equals gross income minus total expenses. A positive number means that the business is making enough to cover expenses and either reinvest in the company, pay debt more quickly, or increase owner incomes.

Operating Expense Ratio

Represents the percentage of gross income used in operating expenses (those expenses on inputs used in the current period). Mathematically, subtract interest expenses from operating expenses and divide the result by gross income.

Organizational Chart

A graphical representation of the formal chain of command for a firm. It shows who the supervisors are and over whom these have authority.

This indicates that the financial statement is a projection of the future. These should be based on the best possible estimates at the time they are put together.

Profit Margin

This shows the percentage of gross income resulting in profits for the firm. Mathematically, find the value of net income plus interest expense minus the value of operator and unpaid operator labor and divide that value by gross income. Interest expense is added back to net income because it represents a return to the debt-financed assets. Removing the value of operator and unpaid operator labor shows that returns must be enough to cover this value.

Rate of Return on Assets

This shows the return to all assets employed in the business as a percentage of the total assets employed. Mathematically, it is found by dividing the numerator of net income plus interest expense minus the value of operator and unpaid operator labor by the denominator of average total farm assets. Interest expense is added back to net income because it represents a return to the debt-financed assets. Removing the value of operator and unpaid operator labor shows that returns must be enough to cover this value.

Rate of Return on Equity

This shows the returns to equity assets employed in the business as a percentage of the equity assets. Mathematically, it is found by dividing the numerator of net income minus the value of operator and unpaid operator labor by the denominator of average total equity assets. Removing the value of operator and unpaid operator labor shows that returns must be enough to cover this value.

Revolving Line of Credit

A type of credit account in which the borrower has a given credit limit which can be borrowed at any time. A credit card or standing account with an equipment dealer are examples of revolving credit lines.

Risk Management

Refers to any attempt to avoid the possibility of unfavorable outcomes under uncertainty. Insurance and buying on futures and options markets to lock in input or output prices are good examples of tools used in risk management.

Sensitivity Analyses

Refers to using alternative assumptions to determine what the outcome of a financial analysis will be if different outcomes are realized. For example, if developing a proforma income statement, using a range of assumptions associated with output prices helps to show how projected net income will change if prices differ from the base assumption.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

These are written sequences of steps required to perform a specific task. Milking a cow, for example, requires many steps. A written SOP allows the milker to perform this task in the same way every time the cow is milked.

Statement of Cash Flows

This shows cash income and cash expenses over a specified period of time, often a year. These receipts and payments are typically broken into three categories associated with operations, investments, and financing.

A systematic review of the firm's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This is used to draw focus on what the firm does well and what it may be able to do to take advantage of emerging market opportunities.

Vision Statement

Provides a summary of the firm's most important goals. Firms differ with respect to how specific they state these goals in their business plans. We recommend being as specific as you can comfortably be.

Working Capital to Value of Production Ratio

This represents working capital as a percentage of gross income. Working capital is equal to current assets minus current liabilities. Current assets include cash and other assets that will be converted to cash or used up within one year. Current liabilities are those that are payable within one year.

Additional Resources

See the Penn State Farm Management website for other resources that may be useful as you develop your agribusiness plan.

Prepared by Jeffrey Hyde, assistant professor of agricultural economics, and Sarah Cornelisse, extension associate.

The authors would like to thank Todd D. Davis, extension economist at Clemson University, and Richard Stup, senior extension associate with Penn State Dairy Alliance, for their helpful reviews of an earlier draft of this publication.

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Building a Sustainable Business

A guide to developing a business plan for farms and rural businesses.

or call (301) 779-1007 to order.

Building a Sustainable Business: A Guide to Developing a Business Plan for Farms and Rural Businesses  brings the business planning process alive to help today's alternative and sustainable agriculture entrepreneurs transform farm-grown inspiration into profitable enterprises. Sample worksheets lend a practical perspective and illustrate how real farm families set goals, researched processing alternatives, determined potential markets, and evaluated financing options. Blank worksheets help the reader develop a detailed, lender-ready business plan or map out strategies to take advantage of new opportunities.

• Abbreviated Spanish version from the University of Missouri 
• Individuals chapters and worksheets from the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture at https://www.misa.umn.edu/publications/buildingasustainablebusiness

Tactical Menu

Mu extension resources for specialty ag producers.

Enterprise budgets can help producers evaluate potential costs and returns.

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri’s urban and specialty agriculture producers—and those considering starting an agricultural enterprise—have new business planning resources at their fingertips.

University of Missouri Extension has released new planning budgets for a host of specialty agriculture enterprises, including high tunnel tomatoes, hydroponic leafy greens, microgreens, Lisianthus cut flowers and beekeeping, as well as a primer on controlled-environment agriculture production. Interactive budgets include projections for 2024 market prices, production, input expenses and ownership costs. The resources are available at http://muext.us/ua-scb .

“Our specialty budgets were designed to help producers evaluate the feasibility and sustainability of their operation,” said Juo-Han Tsay, MU Extension agricultural economist. “Extension professionals worked with experts and Missouri producers to ground-truth prices and production assumptions, which can help users feel confident in utilizing the tools in their own enterprises.”

Much like MU Extension’s crop and livestock enterprise budgets, the new specialty agriculture production budgets are customizable, said MU Extension agricultural economist Ryan Milhollin.

“These budgets are helpful tools for producers to understand what resources and investments might be required to start a new production venture,” said Milhollin. “Beyond the costs associated with establishing a specialty enterprise, like beekeeping, producers can understand the potential returns incurred from scaling up their business.”

Manita Ale, an MU Extension agricultural business specialist based in St. Louis, notes that existing enterprise budgets are a critical component of a larger effort to support producers as they make sound business planning decisions.

“Urban producers, or farmers interested in diversifying their operations to include specialty products, need easily accessible resources,” said Ale. “Extension will continue building out resources and offering programming to equip producers with knowledge to see their specialty agriculture enterprises move from idea to implementation.”

MU Extension’s specialty agriculture resources also benefit Missouri agribusiness and agency partners as they aid producers in making sound management decisions, Ale said. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s St. Louis Urban Service Center is one such partner to leverage extension resources as they help urban producers with starting or expanding agriculture operations.

“Extension’s specialty agriculture resources are instrumental in helping our team provide better customer service to our clients and process loan applications more efficiently,” said Kallie Turner, USDA Farm Service Agency loan manager. “The knowledge and expertise disseminated through MU Extension bridges gaps where our own experience lacks, and the data available at our fingertips helps us make informed decisions.”

MU Extension’s specialty agriculture enterprise budgets are a subset of resources on the new Urban Agriculture program website at http://muext.us/UrbanAg . The Urban Agriculture program aims to equip urban farmers, agribusinesses and individuals interested in agriculture with resources and information to start or expand their enterprises. Other farm management tools that work in conjunction with enterprise budgets can be found on the Agricultural Business and Policy program website at http://muext.us/AgBusiness .

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African Swine Fever Industry Preparedness Program projects

From: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Backgrounder

On May 17, 2024, the Government of Canada announced over $9.6 million in funding for 29 projects under the African Swine Fever Industry Preparedness Program (ASFIPP). The projects must be completed by March 31, 2025.

The ASFIPP has 5 priority areas for projects:

• Biosecurity assessment and improvements including wild pig management
• Sector analysis, communication and engagement
• African swine fever-related research projects
• Processor retrofits
• Regional preparation for welfare slaughter and disposal of surplus healthy hogs

The 29 projects are:

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• Government of Canada helping pork producers prepare for a possible outbreak of African swine fever

Francis Chechile Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food [email protected]

Media Relations Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Ottawa, Ontario 613-773-7972 1-866-345-7972 [email protected] Follow us on  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  Instagram and  LinkedIn Web:  Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

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Research: What Companies Don’t Know About How Workers Use AI

• Jeremie Brecheisen

Three Gallup studies shed light on when and why AI is being used at work — and how employees and customers really feel about it.

Leaders who are exploring how AI might fit into their business operations must not only navigate a vast and ever-changing landscape of tools, but they must also facilitate a significant cultural shift within their organizations. But research shows that leaders do not fully understand their employees’ use of, and readiness for, AI. In addition, a significant number of Americans do not trust business’ use of AI. This article offers three recommendations for leaders to find the right balance of control and trust around AI, including measuring how their employees currently use AI, cultivating trust by empowering managers, and adopting a purpose-led AI strategy that is driven by the company’s purpose instead of a rules-heavy strategy that is driven by fear.

If you’re a leader who wants to shift your workforce toward using AI, you need to do more than manage the implementation of new technologies. You need to initiate a profound cultural shift. At the heart of this cultural shift is trust. Whether the use case for AI is brief and experimental or sweeping and significant, a level of trust must exist between leaders and employees for the initiative to have any hope of success.

• Jeremie Brecheisen is a partner and managing director of The Gallup CHRO Roundtable.

Partner Center

Hubbell Environmental Law Initiative

HELI supports experiential learning for Iowa Law students

Preparing students for future success.

Through the Hubbell Environmental Law Initiative, Iowa Law has the unique ability to support law students by providing summer stipends to assist students pursuing public interest or public service careers in environmental law.

Summer internships, a staple of the law school experience, offer students the opportunity to explore legal career options, obtain practical legal skills, and begin developing a network. Student recipients of the HELI summer funding use the funding to support unpaid summer positions after their first and second years of law school. What they learn through these practical legal experiences shape their career trajectories and expand their professional networks. 

During the 2023-2024 academic year, the HELI team worked closely with the Career Services team to identify students as well as internship opportunities in the Midwest, in an effort to match students with open opportunities. 

As a result of this coordinating effort, HELI is proud to support 12 Iowa Law students who are embarking on professional experiences this summer. 67% of the students receiving this support will be working at organizations within Iowa. 92% of the students receiving this support will be remaining in the Midwest, working in Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.  

Students are working in positions at the following organizations: 

• Clean Wisconsin 
• Driftless Water Defenders 
• Environmental Enforcement Section of the Environment & Natural Resources Division of the U.S. Department of Justice
• Environmental Law and Policy Center 
• Iowa Attorney General's Office Environmental Law Division 
• Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
• Iowa Environmental Council 
• Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy 

Meet the summer student interns

Below are profiles of each student selected for summer support by the HELI and Career Services teams. 

Noah Gaber, Class of 2026 Hometown : Dubuque, Iowa Summer position: The Driftless Water Defenders nonprofit in Iowa City, Iowa. I will be creating an Iowa specific environmental law handbook meant to aid attorneys and other professionals in their efforts related to protecting Iowa's environment. I will be assisting in starting a non-profit focused on assessing the water quality in the driftless region in Northeastern Iowa in an effort to protect Iowa's water and potentially aid in litigating Iowa's water safety.

How do you plan to use this position or experience to create change?  I have worked for environmental initiatives in the past but none of what I did will be as impactful as this Summer project will be. As cancer rates in Iowa rise, regulations are rolled back and more factory farms end up in the state, water quality is becoming a crisis. We're hoping to make real strides towards protecting water in Iowa by educating the public, providing resources for professionals and preparing for potential litigation in the future. Having been born and raised in Iowa, I am very excited to have the opportunity to work on this project and help protect the environment of my home.

Mackenzie Holmes, Class of 2026 Hometown: Des Moines, Iowa Summer position: I will be working for the Iowa Attorney General's Office on an agricultural reporting project.

How will this funding support make a difference in your education and professional goals? This summer funding will make a huge difference in my professional goals, specifically broadening my knowledge of law. I think it's important to get to experience the law from a governmental perspective to really understand how bills get made and what occurs after they pass. This isn't always sustainable for law students however due to monetary considerations, so the ability to have this grant will further my drive for more experience.

Mateen Karimi, Class of 2026  Hometown: Iowa City, Iowa Summer position: I will be working as a Summer Law Clerk at the Iowa Environmental Council in Des Moines, Iowa. 

Why is environmental or public interest work important to you?  Environmental work is important to me because we must meet our climate goals that have been set by national and international governments around the world. The clock is ticking. I also think environmental law is a fascinating, rapidly growing field that involves engagement with multiple disciplines, including business, science, and the legal profession. Tackling lofty goals of achieving net zero emissions is going to require an “all-hands-on-deck” approach, and one of the best ways to do that is to get involved at the local level. Environmental work is important to me because, well, it is important. I need to learn more about what environmental law looks like in the context of Iowa, especially in regards to what work still needs to be done. However, thinking about what is possible in Iowa excites me very much. I think it is really important that I learn from this experience to familiarize myself with what environmental attorneys do. Thus, in order to use this position to create change, I first need to educate myself on what that change could look like, and then we can get to work!

Nina Marquardt, Class of 2026 Hometown : Cedar Rapids, Iowa  Summer position: I will be working as a clerk at the nonprofit Driftless Water Defenders in Iowa City. 

Why is environmental or public interest work important to you?   As someone who has always loved being outdoors and learning about nature, I try to be a steward of the environment, not just a consumer. Environmental and public interest work aligns with my values and passions for preserving the environment and establishing a foundation for my community to be sustainable and resilient. I see environmental and public interest work as a fundamental responsibility to create a sustainable and equitable society as environmental issues intersect with social justice concerns. By advocating and working for environmental protection and responsible practices, we can address systemic inequalities and ensure a better future for generations to come. This funding will significantly improve my education and professional goals by allowing me to focus on my upcoming summer clerkship position without having to work multiple jobs to make ends meet. I plan to use this clerkship as an opportunity to grow my legal research and writing skills. Specifically, I would like to become more acquainted with environmental law, specifically in Iowa. I would like to learn more about how it functions and what I need to do to succeed as an environmental lawyer in the state.

Sonia Mehra, Class of 2025 Hometown : Eden Prairie, Minnesota Summer position : Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. I will be working on providing grants to counties for water maintenance and development, working on projects revolving around the usage of wells, and there is an ongoing project with FEMA on creating disaster plans for spills that could have a radiological impact on human health. How will this HELI summer grant make a difference in your education and professional goals? I am so excited to be able to pursue my interest in the intersection of Healthcare Law and Environmental Law at the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services this summer. The funding that HELI has given me makes a huge difference in my educational goals.  Thanks to that funding, I can afford to get experiential credits for the work that I am doing this summer and has helped fund my housing in Des Moines. Without this grant, I don’t think it would have been financially possible for me to accept this internship.

Bryce Merges, Class of 2026 Hometown: Ames, IA   Summer position : I will be working at the Des Moines office of the Environmental Law and Policy Center under Senior Attorney Josh Mandelbaum. I will be researching and writing memos about environmental issues affecting Iowa such as clean water access, clean energy usage, zoning, and other related issues.  

  How will this funding support make a difference in your education and professional goals? Receiving this funding allowed me to pursue a position doing important work for our state that I wouldn't have been able to do without receiving the funding. I will be able to save money for the upcoming semester while exploring an area that I am interested in, and I am very thankful for the support to be able to do it.  

Kristjan Nixon, Class of 2026 Hometown : Pierre, South Dakota Summer position: I will be working at the Driftless Water Defenders. Our project for the summer is the first section of a handbook that will help lawyers in Iowa access environmental law.   

Why is environmental or public interest work important to you?  Environmental work is important to me because I've grown up with the climate crisis. Watching winters get shorter and weather get more erratic is a surreal experience that has reinforced the value of the world we have. Environmental advocacy moves our society toward a balance with nature, and I hope to help however I can.

Kegan Peters, Class of 2025 Hometown: Ames, Iowa Summer position: This summer I will be interning in Washington D.C. in the Environmental Enforcement Section of the Environment & Natural Resources Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. After graduation, I hope to practice environmental law for either the government or a non-profit. Post-graduation I also look forward to continuing to explore my interest in academic research and writing. 

How has funding support made a difference in your education and professional goals: Without HELI funding I would never have traveled to the ABA SEER conference in Chicago. I'm so glad I did, though, as I met some fabulous environmental attorneys at the conference who I'm sure will be my mentors for years to come.

Charles Petersen, Class of 2026 Hometown: Marion, Iowa Summer position: I am working as a legal intern for Clean Wisconsin assisting them in environmental issues involving water quality, air quality, and climate.   

How will this funding support make a difference in your education and professional goals: This funding will make a difference in my education and professional goals by providing the necessary support for me to take this opportunity in another state. Working for an organization involved with environmental legal issues, scientific research, and public policy will be a unique experience and learning opportunity. I will get valuable hands-on experience with attorneys working in this critical field of law. As a student traversing law school on a limited budget, I really appreciate HELI’s funding support in allowing me to get this experience.  

Mark Prihoda, Class of 2026 Hometown : Brookfield, Wisconsin Summer position: I will be working at the Driftless Water Defenders. The project for the summer is the first section of a handbook that will help lawyers in Iowa access environmental law.

How do you plan to use this position or experience to create change? My work at the Driftless Water Defenders will serve a non-partisan interest in providing legal theories for victims of water pollution. I am very excited to be working under the guidance of Mr. Larew to help develop this environmental law framework for the public! There are few things more important—to everyone—than clean water.  

Nate Spindler-Krage, Class of 2026 Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota   Summer position: I will be working as a Summer Law Clerk at the Iowa Environmental Council in Des Moines, where I will advocate for justice in our water quality and utility regulation, from both policy and legal perspectives. It is critical that Iowa has effective, forward-thinking laws and that Iowa agencies base their decisions on science and community input from all stakeholders.  

Why is environmental or public interest work important to you? Environmental work has spoken to me since I was a child, from fishing in the driftless, to tree planting and cutting buckthorn, to my first controlled burn at my grandparents' farm- I love it all: having my hands in the soil, paddling lakes, seeking out new birds or plants, hiking new places, and studying the world around me. Following education and a job in soil and water conservation, I know that people love their land but often fail to treat it well. As individuals, it often feels impossible to change the course of our society. In Iowa and much of the Midwest, we face soil loss, water quality degradation, and a quickly changing climate. We need to halt environmental destruction while adapting to what we change—and that requires everyone.   Public interest work is critical because it bridges the gap between individuals and society. We may (1) build connections within our communities and (2) leverage the law to codify and enforce expectations—our hopes and dreams. Now, too often, we see our communities struggling alongside our environment. Public interest work may help us reverse course so that we, our children, and our children's children are able to connect with a safe and beautiful Iowa.

Samuel William, Class of 2026 Hometown: Shoreview, Minnesota

Where are you working this summer, and what will you be working on: I will work at the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy (MCEA) as a Summer Clerk. MCEA's mission is to use the law to protect Minnesota's environment, natural resources, and the health of its citizens. I will support this mission over the summer by offering research, legal analysis, and summarized findings on identified legal issues; document review, contact with administrative agencies, and pleadings drafting; analyzing potential cases and developing legal strategies; and attending client and administrative hearings.

How do you plan to use this position or experience to create change?  I plan on using this experience to further the preservation of Minnesota's beautiful environment. Organizations like MCEA are vital to ensuring that other entities comply with their obligations to avoid pollution and take responsible measures to remedy any environmental damage. Every case that MCEA wins for the environment contributes to awareness of these issues and the problems that lurk behind the scenes. I am thrilled to be a contributor to the change that this position engages within. 

Expanding professional networks

The Hubbell Initiative was created by the vision and generosity of alumni Charlotte Beyer Hubbell (76JD) and Fred Hubbell (76JD) and provides an active forum for interdisciplinary engagement on important environmental issues, supports law students and curriculum, and ultimately raises the environmental bar in Iowa.

The HELI team will continue to expand the network of partner organizations to establish relationships for future internship placements. If you are a member of an organization that would like to host summer interns, contact HELI at [email protected] . 

Join us in wishing our summer interns good luck in their endeavors. 

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Fact sheet: president biden takes action to protect american workers and businesses from china’s unfair trade practices, office of public affairs.

President Biden’s economic plan is supporting investments and creating good jobs in key sectors that are vital for America’s economic future and national security. China’s unfair trade practices concerning technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation are threatening American businesses and workers. China is also flooding global markets with artificially low-priced exports. In response to China’s unfair trade practices and to counteract the resulting harms, today, President Biden is directing his Trade Representative to increase tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 on $18 billion of imports from China to protect American workers and businesses.   The Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda has already catalyzed more than $860 billion in business investments through smart, public incentives in industries of the future like electric vehicles (EVs), clean energy, and semiconductors. With support from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act, these investments are creating new American jobs in manufacturing and clean energy and helping communities that have been left behind make a comeback.   As President Biden says, American workers and businesses can outcompete anyone—as long as they have fair competition. But for too long, China’s government has used unfair, non-market practices. China’s forced technology transfers and intellectual property theft have contributed to its control of 70, 80, and even 90 percent of global production for the critical inputs necessary for our technologies, infrastructure, energy, and health care—creating unacceptable risks to America’s supply chains and economic security. Furthermore, these same non-market policies and practices contribute to China’s growing overcapacity and export surges that threaten to significantly harm American workers, businesses, and communities.   Today’s actions to counter China’s unfair trade practices are carefully targeted at strategic sectors—the same sectors where the United States is making historic investments under President Biden to create and sustain good-paying jobs—unlike recent proposals by Congressional Republicans that would threaten jobs and raise costs across the board. The previous administration’s trade deal with China  failed  to increase American exports or boost American manufacturing as it had promised. Under President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, nearly 800,000 manufacturing jobs have been created and new factory construction has doubled after both fell under the previous administration, and the trade deficit with China is the lowest in a decade—lower than any year under the last administration.   We will continue to work with our partners around the world to strengthen cooperation to address shared concerns about China’s unfair practices—rather than undermining our alliances or applying indiscriminate 10 percent tariffs that raise prices on all imports from all countries, regardless whether they are engaged in unfair trade. The Biden-Harris Administration recognizes the benefits for our workers and businesses from strong alliances and a rules-based international trade system based on fair competition.   Following an in-depth review by the United States Trade Representative, President Biden is taking action to protect American workers and American companies from China’s unfair trade practices. To encourage China to eliminate its unfair trade practices regarding technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation, the President is directing increases in tariffs across strategic sectors such as steel and aluminum, semiconductors, electric vehicles, batteries, critical minerals, solar cells, ship-to-shore cranes, and medical products.   Steel and Aluminum   The tariff rate on certain steel and aluminum products under Section 301 will increase from 0–7.5% to 25% in 2024.   Steel is a vital sector for the American economy, and American companies are leading the future of clean steel. Recently, the Biden-Harris Administration announced $6 billion for 33 clean manufacturing projects including for steel and aluminum, including the first new primary aluminum smelter in four decades, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. These investments will make the United States one of the first nations in the world to convert clean hydrogen into clean steel, bolstering the U.S. steel industry’s competitiveness as the world’s cleanest major steel producer.   American workers continue to face unfair competition from China’s non-market overcapacity in steel and aluminum, which are among the world’s most carbon-intensive. China’s policies and subsidies for their domestic steel and aluminum industries mean high-quality, low-emissions U.S. products are undercut by artificially low-priced Chinese alternatives produced with higher emissions. Today’s actions will shield the U.S. steel and aluminum industries from China’s unfair trade practices.   Semiconductors   The tariff rate on semiconductors will increase from 25% to 50% by 2025.   China’s policies in the legacy semiconductor sector have led to growing market share and rapid capacity expansion that risks driving out investment by market-driven firms. Over the next three to five years, China is expected to account for almost half of all new capacity coming online to manufacture certain legacy semiconductor wafers. During the pandemic, disruptions to the supply chain, including legacy chips, led to price spikes in a wide variety of products, including automobiles, consumer appliances, and medical devices, underscoring the risks of overreliance on a few markets.   Through the CHIPS and Science Act, President Biden is making a nearly $53 billion investment in American semiconductor manufacturing capacity, research, innovation, and workforce. This will help counteract decades of disinvestment and offshoring that has reduced the United States’ capacity to manufacture semiconductors domestically. The CHIPS and Science Act includes $39 billion in direct incentives to build, modernize, and expand semiconductor manufacturing fabrication facilities as well as a 25% investment tax credit for semiconductor companies. Raising the tariff rate on semiconductors is an important initial step to promote the sustainability of these investments.   Electric Vehicles (EVs)   The tariff rate on electric vehicles under Section 301 will increase from 25% to 100% in 2024.   With extensive subsidies and non-market practices leading to substantial risks of overcapacity, China’s exports of EVs grew by 70% from 2022 to 2023—jeopardizing productive investments elsewhere. A 100% tariff rate on EVs will protect American manufacturers from China’s unfair trade practices.   This action advances President Biden’s vision of ensuring the future of the auto industry will be made in America by American workers. As part of the President’s Investing in America agenda, the Administration is incentivizing the development of a robust EV market through business tax credits for manufacturing of batteries and production of critical minerals, consumer tax credits for EV adoption, smart standards, federal investments in EV charging infrastructure, and grants to supply EV and battery manufacturing. The increase in the tariff rate on electric vehicles will protect these investments and jobs from unfairly priced Chinese imports.   Batteries, Battery Components and Parts, and Critical Minerals   The tariff rate on lithium-ion EV batteries will increase from 7.5%% to 25% in 2024, while the tariff rate on lithium-ion non-EV batteries will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2026. The tariff rate on battery parts will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2024.   The tariff rate on natural graphite and permanent magnets will increase from zero to 25% in 2026. The tariff rate for certain other critical minerals will increase from zero to 25% in 2024.   Despite rapid and recent progress in U.S. onshoring, China currently controls over 80 percent of certain segments of the EV battery supply chain, particularly upstream nodes such as critical minerals mining, processing, and refining. Concentration of critical minerals mining and refining capacity in China leaves our supply chains vulnerable and our national security and clean energy goals at risk. In order to improve U.S. and global resiliency in these supply chains, President Biden has invested across the U.S. battery supply chain to build a sufficient domestic industrial base. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Defense Production Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act, the Biden-Harris Administration has invested nearly $20 billion in grants and loans to expand domestic production capacity of advanced batteries and battery materials. The Inflation Reduction Act also contains manufacturing tax credits to incentivize investment in battery and battery material production in the United States. The President has also established the American Battery Materials Initiative, which will mobilize an all-of-government approach to secure a dependable, robust supply chain for batteries and their inputs.   Solar Cells   The tariff rate on solar cells (whether or not assembled into modules) will increase from 25% to 50% in 2024.   The tariff increase will protect against China’s policy-driven overcapacity that depresses prices and inhibits the development of solar capacity outside of China. China has used unfair practices to dominate upwards of 80 to 90% of certain parts of the global solar supply chain, and is trying to maintain that status quo. Chinese policies and nonmarket practices are flooding global markets with artificially cheap solar modules and panels, undermining investment in solar manufacturing outside of China.   The Biden-Harris Administration has made historic investments in the U.S. solar supply chain, building on early U.S. government-enabled research and development that helped create solar cell technologies. The Inflation Reduction Act provides supply-side tax incentives for solar components, including polysilicon, wafers, cells, modules, and backsheet material, as well as tax credits and grant and loan programs supporting deployment of utility-scale and residential solar energy projects. As a result of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, solar manufacturers have already announced nearly $17 billion in planned investment under his Administration—an 8-fold increase in U.S. manufacturing capacity, enough to supply panels for millions of homes each year by 2030.   Ship-to-Shore Cranes   The tariff rate on ship-to-shore cranes will increase from 0% to 25% in 2024.   The Administration continues to deliver for the American people by rebuilding the United States’ industrial capacity to produce port cranes with trusted partners. A 25% tariff rate on ship-to-shore cranes will help protect U.S. manufacturers from China’s unfair trade practices that have led to excessive concentration in the market. Port cranes are essential pieces of infrastructure that enable the continuous movement and flow of critical goods to, from, and within the United States, and the Administration is taking action to mitigate risks that could disrupt American supply chains. This action also builds off of ongoing work to invest in U.S. port infrastructure through the President’s Investing in America Agenda. This port security initiative includes bringing port crane manufacturing capabilities back to the United States to support U.S. supply chain security and encourages ports across the country and around the world to use trusted vendors when sourcing cranes or other heavy equipment.   Medical Products   The tariff rates on syringes and needles will increase from 0% to 50% in 2024. For certain personal protective equipment (PPE), including certain respirators and face masks, the tariff rates will increase from 0–7.5% to 25% in 2024. Tariffs on rubber medical and surgical gloves will increase from 7.5% to 25% in 2026.   These tariff rate increases will help support and sustain a strong domestic industrial base for medical supplies that were essential to the COVID-19 pandemic response, and continue to be used daily in every hospital across the country to deliver essential care. The federal government and the private sector have made substantial investments to build domestic manufacturing for these and other medical products to ensure American health care workers and patients have access to critical medical products when they need them. American businesses are now struggling to compete with underpriced Chinese-made supplies dumped on the market, sometimes of such poor quality that they may raise safety concerns for health care workers and patients.   Today’s announcement reflects President Biden’s commitment to always have the back of American workers. When faced with anticompetitive, unfair practices from abroad, the President will deploy any and all tools necessary to protect American workers and industry.

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Baltimore Orioles | Even with 6-man rotation, Orioles plan to keep…

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Baltimore orioles | preakness 2024: seize the grey goes wire-to-wire, outruns mystik dan in 149th running, baltimore orioles, baltimore orioles | even with 6-man rotation, orioles plan to keep corbin burnes on schedule.

Grayson Rodriguez (shoulder inflammation) is nearing his return from the injured list, forcing the Orioles to get creative about how best to deploy their pitching staff that has the best ERA in the majors since the start of May. With the club facing a difficult schedule that includes 43 games in 45 days, the Orioles have started to plan for a six-man rotation to accommodate their deep well of starting pitchers.

“We would expect to go to a six-man probably here pretty soon with that kind of long stretch coming up,” manager Brandon Hyde said before Friday night’s 9-2 win against the Seattle Mariners. “So, we feel great about adding a really good starter right now into our bullpen. It’s kind of a unique deal but with Grayson coming off the IL, it’s just kind of where we are roster-wise.”

Baltimore hasn’t announced when Rodriguez will return, but Hyde said Friday that the right-hander wouldn’t need a rehabilitation start; the team has yet to name its starters for Saturday or Sunday. A rain out Tuesday and a day off Thursday have already forced the Orioles to shuffle a few pitchers around. They temporarily moved Cole Irvin, who’s 4-1 with a 2.90 ERA this season, to the bullpen to allow John Means to pitch on five days’ rest. Dean Kremer hasn’t pitched since Sunday and Corbin Burnes would be on track to start Saturday if he follows his typical schedule.

As the Orioles craft their rotation plans for the next six weeks, Burnes’ schedule is the first piece they plan to place in the puzzle. The right-hander is the only Orioles starter who has not been skipped through a turn of the rotation at least once this season, and for good reason. He leads the rotation in ERA (2.68), WHIP (1.07) and groundball rate (51.4%), living up to his billing as a Cy Young candidate.

“We kinda mapped out Burnes and filled in a little bit with the other guys on how we see fit,” Hyde said. “We’re not in that stretch yet, but it’s coming soon, so we’re trying to keep them all healthy as possible. Then when we have that stretch we can probably go into a six-man rotation, which does limit a bullpen arm, which does put some stress on the ’pen.”

To keep Burnes on schedule, the Orioles will have to use a modified version of a six-man rotation that skips the occasional starter every week or two. Regardless of whether he starts Saturday or Sunday, Burnes will be in line to make six starts over the next 45 days with a seventh start following the June 17 day off that concludes their stretch of near-everyday games.

That stretch won’t be an easy run of opponents either. After their road trip against the last place teams of the two central divisions, the Orioles will play 14 straight against American League East rivals, including eight on the road. They’ll then return to Camden Yards to host the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies, the top two teams in the National League East.

“Daunting is that many days without an off day, not the AL East part,” Hyde said. “The opponents we’re gonna face, record-wise, it looks like all the teams are playing well and are good teams. Without an off day in there, one, it’s going to be a challenge. And then the AL East, they’re really good clubs that can pitch and can hurt you. Hopefully, we go into that stretch as healthy as possible.”

The Orioles’ pitching staff is nearly at full strength, and a benefit of spreading out their starters now is limiting their total innings for the long run. Baltimore’s rotation contains three starters with workload concerns: Kyle Bradish, who partially tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow five months ago; Means, a former Tommy John recipient who began the season on the injured list; and Rodriguez, who has never pitched more than 122 innings in a season and just needed a break because of shoulder inflammation.

By maximizing the number of starts Burnes can make while giving their three starters with injury histories an extra day off between starts for a month, the Orioles can strike the rare balance of chasing every regular-season win they can while putting themselves in the best position to have a healthy roster for the playoffs in October.

“You don’t want to miss any starts, but if it helps you in the long run, obviously it’s a long season,” Rodriguez said last week of whether his IL stint could help him get through the rest of the year healthy. “I want to be healthy for September and October and that’s the goal. That’s what we’re trying to accomplish.”

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