There is something appealing about a rural lifestyle. Many people dream of taking their fate into their hands and running their own business, no longer having to deal with the stresses of everyday existence. However, before you go financing Titan tractor attachments and purchasing a John Deere bale spear for sale, remember that a rural life doesn’t mean an easy life, especially when talking about farming. There are several things to consider before starting a small farm, especially if you want it to be profitable.
Education is Key
Farming is not something you just dive into. You need to have a plan and understand agricultural science. Farming is precise work, and it involves a lot of patience and commitment to make it work. If possible go to college in pursuit of an agricultural degree. If college is not in the cards, consider applying for a job on a working farm to get some experience. While jumping in is an option, it is not the most advisable way to start a business.
Know Your Niche
What do you want to grow? Are you interested in fruits, vegetables, flowers, or something else? It is crucial to narrow down your interests to something specific. For example, focusing on growing and cultivating blueberries is a better focus than focusing on fruit in general. By limiting your focus to a distinct niche, you can master your craft, and make no mistakes, farming is a craft.
Create a Business Plan
Farming costs money. Most people will not have the funds necessary to start their small farming operation, meaning they will need to request a business loan. Traditional and private lenders want to see the details of your farming operation, even if it doesn’t exist yet. You need to come up with growth projections, consumer insights, profitability projections, sales plans, marketing campaigns, etc. A lender will not work with an incompetent partner, show them you know your stuff and provide a list of equipment essentials, like root grapples for sale.
Find the Land
Beyond the business plan, you will need to find land for your operation. While it can sound easy, selecting land is more challenging than you might expect. You need to consider the space requirements for the products you intend to harvest. You also need to consider the soil, water access, and countless other necessities. It is helpful to consult with a professional farmer.
Research Financing Options
With a business plan and a prospective piece of land in mind, it is time to take your vision to the dream-makers, the financers or loan providers. You can choose a conventional or private lender, but keep in mind that conventional lenders have strict requirements. Private lenders are typically less restrictive.
Learn To Market Yourself and Your Product
While growing and selling crops is a significant part of farming, it is only a portion of the whole. Farmers have to learn how to sell and market themselves and their product. If you do not have a strong marketing strategy, you will find it difficult to become profitable.
Farming represents an American ideal, but it still requires tremendous work and effort. It is not for the faint of heart. If you would like more information, consider reaching out to a professional for advice.