Find and support the next generation of farmers
Start to Farm supports landholders who are interested in providing opportunities for new entrants to agriculture to get involved in joint ventures and other collaborative farming partnerships. If you have land, a business, or an enterprise and are exploring ways to bring in new skills, energy or future succession options, Start to Farm can help you identify and work with a suitable Seeker. You may not have a natural successor, or it may be a little early for them to step into the business. A joint venture could be the stepping stone to fill that gap in the short, medium or long term.
The programme is designed to help you explore partnerships safely, realistically and at a pace that works for you.
By engaging with Start to Farm, you can access support to:
- Explore new opportunities - Consider options such as work placements, joint ventures, partnerships or progression routes into the business.
- Connect with Seekers - Matching and facilitation to help landholders and land seekers explore joint ventures and partnerships
- Assess fit and viability - Receive structured support to explore compatibility, expectations and the practical considerations involved.
- Make a plan - Fully funded business support up to £2750 per partner to explore and test business viability, develop a business plan and your understanding of collaborative farming ventures.
- Reduce risk - Funding of up to £2000 per partner towards specialist advice to formalise legal agreements and contracts
Participation does not commit you to a long-term arrangement — opportunities can be exploratory and proportionate.
Take the next step
If you’re interested in supporting a new entrant, developing your business, or exploring collaborative ways of working, Start to Farm can help you take the first step.
Click here to complete a Provider Profile or contact our dedicated Succession Facilitator to discuss your options for advertising your opportunity.
If you already have a business partner in mind and don’t need to use the matching service you can skip this step to access business and legal advice straight away. Contact your regional facilitator.