Build Your Network

Networking is a critical activity for all businesses, but especially for new organic farmers. The peer support, sense of community and the sharing of experience are contributing factors for many to make the transition. The right network can connect you to advice on managing pests or hosting WOOFERs (Willing Workers on Organic Farms). It can help you find sources of certified organic seed or compost. A network can also provide information about competitors, attempts at similar ventures and partners or customers you might want to seek or avoid.

A good network should help you identify potential business opportunities, bounce ideas around, connect you with resources, potential partners and professional expertise, and provide support if things don’t work out according to plan. Effectively using your network involves a balance of sharing and secrecy, being open and being selective. Knowing who to keep out of your network can often be more important than letting people in.

Organizations like ACORN can help facilitate networking between new and experienced organic farmers. Events like the annual conference and trade show and regional workshops present an excellent opportunity to connect. More information on ACORN events can be found at the ACORN website. Other opportunities for networking might include colleges and universities, farmers' markets or even Facebook groups or internet forums.

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