South Carolina farmers can apply for state-run business training by Dec. 7

South Carolina residents who have farmed for fewer than 10 years can submit applications for the 2027 New and Beginning Farmer Program by Dec. 7. The program, which has trained more than 750 graduates over its 17-year history, offers business education to help small-scale producers launch or expand their operations.

The initiative is funded in part by a $141,000 Rural Business Development Grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development. This grant supports the program through next year. It marks the second time the Clemson University Cooperative Extension Agribusiness program has operated with this specific federal funding.

The 2027 cohort will run from February through August. Participants will attend nine workshops that focus on agribusiness and production management. Topics include developing business plans, handling financial risks, understanding legal regulations, and managing soil health. Most of these sessions will be hosted online to reduce travel barriers for applicants.

Ben Boyles, the program director, noted that one in four South Carolina producers are new or beginning farmers with less than a decade of experience. "These emerging farmers need targeted training and technical assistance to ensure they have the skills to sustain and grow their new farm businesses," Boyles said. The goal is to help participants build viable businesses while improving access to locally produced food.

Diana Vossbrinck, the program manager, explained the decision to shift much of the curriculum to a digital format. "At the same time, we appreciate that the SCNBFP can be more inclusive when travel requirements are limited," Vossbrinck said. The program will balance online access with in-person opportunities to maintain peer networking among farmers.

Eligibility requires applicants to be legal residents of South Carolina, at least 18 years old, and actively farming for less than 10 consecutive years. The program typically serves small, family farms that prioritize environmental stewardship and local food systems.

The 2027 schedule also includes eight online lunch and learn events. These sessions cover advanced or niche topics and are open to the cohort, past graduates, and the general public. Applicants can find the program outline, fee structure, and application form at scnewfarmer.org.