Entrepreneurship Coaching for Food & Farm Ventures
Coaching provides a deeper, more productive conversation with the clear goal and steps for helping launch or grow your business idea. The University of Maryland Extension has trained business coaches that are familiar with the ins and outs of agricultural and food-related businesses.
UMD Extension coaches have expertise across a wide range of topics including urban agriculture, food safety, business planning, small and large farm enterprise, marketing, crop and livestock management and more. Meet our coaches to find the right coach for you!
Up to six 45 minute virtual Entrepreneurial Coaching sessions are free of charge and all individuals interested in growing their businesses are invited to participate. Set your course for success and book today!
Is coaching right for you?
- Are you currently farming as a business?
- Are you wanting to transition your farm or food venture to a business?
- Are you currently selling a product?
- Do you have a specific business or marketing question you are trying to answer?
- Have you reached a pivot point on your current business or business planning and need help?
- Do you have a specific business idea you are exploring?
If one or more questions applies to you, you will benefit from coaching.
How to get the most out of your coaching session.
- Prepare your questions
- Understand where you need support
- Consider and write down your business goals
- Put your appointment and link in your calendar and make sure you can access the technology required to meet with your coach
- You do not need to have a completed business plan; however, if you are exploring business ideas, you should have a few business models in mind that are feasible for your current farm or food venture development.
- If you are exploring all available options, visit the Business Development Resources to help you explore ideas, understand what to consider, and begin developing a business plan before signing up for coaching.
To Schedule a Coaching Session
The University of Maryland’s Entrepreneurial Coaching Team for farm and food entrepreneurs has virtual appointments available. Each appointment is scheduled for 45 minutes. You will meet with your coach in a virtual meeting room using Zoom. Please complete a brief intake form before scheduling your virtual appointment so your coach can be better prepared to discuss your unique situation.
This work is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, award number 2021-49400-35619.
Register for a Coaching Session
Technology Requirements for a Virtual Coaching Session
When you schedule your session, you will receive a link to join Zoom. There are visual resources to share with you so we prefer you to log in on your computer or phone app. However, if for some reason this isn't working for you, you may use the call-in option below. Zoom does require software, so if you plan to use your phone you will need to download their app. Their app can be obtained by going to Apple App Store or Goggle Play. If you use your computer, click the link to join Zoom, you will be prompted to download their software. A high-speed internet connection, speakers, and microphone (or phone) will be needed to have a successful coaching experience.
- Windows: If you plan to join the meeting using Internet Explorer, we recommend having ActiveX enabled. If you plan to join the meeting using Firefox or Chrome, we recommend having Java installed and enabled in your browser.
- Mac OS X: Make sure that Java is installed and enabled in your browser. If you are using Safari, make sure that plugins are enabled as well. Once connected you will be prompted to connect audio speakers and microphone.
Problems?
If you have a problem logging in, please send an email to entrecoach@umd.edu describing the issue and a phone number where you can be reached.