Recruitment for the current FarmPath program has officially closed.
We’re grateful for the incredible interest in helping shape the future of agriculture through FarmPath. While applications are not currently open, the program continues to grow through strategic partnerships and supporter engagement.
If you’re interested in learning more about FarmPath or exploring funding and partnership opportunities, we’d love to connect.
FarmPath helps aspiring and beginning farmers build the knowledge, connections, and confidence needed to succeed in today’s changing agricultural system.
Thank you for applying!
Applications for FarmPath close on March 31, 2026. Applicants will be notified of their program status by April 17.
About The Program
FarmPath is a national, 3-year program designed to support aspiring and beginning farmers as they explore, plan, and build viable and sustainable farm businesses.
Participants gain practical education, exposure to experienced mentors, and access to a national network of professionals working across food and agriculture. The program goes beyond production skills to help new farmers understand the systems, markets, and decisions that shape long-term success.
Gain foundational skills in business management, operations, and regenerative practices through live virtual learning modules.
Connect with industry-leading experts who provide one-on-one guidance and real-world insights.
Access Farm Foundation’s extensive network of professionals working across food and agriculture.
Understand the systems, markets, and decisions that shape long-term success in agriculture.
The Challenge
American agriculture faces a critical crossroads. With farmers aging and barriers rising, we risk losing generations of knowledge and the backbone of our food system.
The average U.S. farmer is nearing retirement, creating an urgent need for new agricultural leaders.
Rising land costs and capital requirements create significant barriers for beginning farmers.
The number of farms in America has declined by nearly a third since 1980.
Half of beginning farmers leave agriculture within their first five years without proper support.
American agriculture is entering a new era. Local and regional food systems are expanding. Consumer demand for regenerative and sustainably grown food is rising. New markets for specialty crops and direct-to-consumer sales are emerging across the country. The opportunity for new farmers has never been greater.
But new farmers face significant barriers to entry: limited access to land and capital, few connections to established industry networks, and a lack of the business knowledge needed to build a viable operation. Most agricultural programs focus on production skills — not business fundamentals.
FarmPath bridges this gap. This three-year program provides structured training in farm business management, connects participants with industry mentors and professional networks, helps navigate financing and business planning, and offers up to $10,000 in implementation funding — all at no cost to participants.
The Journey
A comprehensive 3-year pathway designed to take you from aspiring farmer to successful agricultural entrepreneur.
Build your agricultural business knowledge foundation through comprehensive virtual training, expert guidance, and cohort-based learning.
Access to years two and three are not guaranteed.
Advancement is based on year one engagement, completion of Learning Modules, reapplication on time, and commitment to building a viable business plan.
Apply your knowledge with hands-on experience and personalized one-on-one mentorship from experienced agricultural entrepreneurs.
Launch your farming operation with ongoing support, continued mentorship, and up to $10,000 to help implement your plan!
Eligibility
FarmPath is designed for motivated individuals ready to embark on their agricultural journey.
See if FarmPath aligns with your goals
Aspiring Farmer
You're exploring whether farming is the right path for you
Beginning Farmer
You're looking to build or strengthen a farm business
Farm Family Member
You're interested in diversification or new approaches to an existing farm enterprise
Urban or Community Grower
You're ready to formalize or scale your operation
Early-Stage & Motivated
You're open to learning and collaboration with peers and mentors
Ready to Commit
You can dedicate time to the program and are serious about your farming journey
Review program eligibility criteria
U.S. Resident
You are a legal resident of the United States and eligible to work in the country.
Commitment to 3-Year Program
You can commit to actively participating in the full 3-year program including training, mentorship, and cohort activities.
Access to Land (Current or Planned)
You have access to farmland or a concrete plan to acquire access within the program timeline.
Basic Business Knowledge
You have foundational understanding of business concepts or willingness to learn.
Technology Access
You have reliable internet access and basic computer skills for virtual training components.
The Process
Applications for FarmPath have now closed. Please visit FarmFoundation.org to learn more or fill out this form to stay up to date on the latest Farm Foundation news and opportunities.
Applications for FarmPath have closed.
Interested individuals can apply to be accepted to the first year, 300 person cohort.
Applications will be reviewed and program participants will be notified of their selection in early April.
The program officially kicks off for participants in May 2026.
Find answers to common questions about FarmPath, eligibility, and the application process.
How much time is required of me in year one?
There will be 10 Learning Modules in year one. Each Learning Module will feature at least 1 live webinar led by an expert in the topic, as well as additional resources like suggested readings, guides, and/or other relevant recordings. Participation in live webinars is highly encouraged but is not mandatory. Recordings of each module’s webinar and associated resources will be available to view afterwards at your own pace. Participants must complete 80% of the modules and pass simple quizzes to remain eligible for future years. Two-hour Learning Modules will be offered as follows: 1 Learning Module per month in May, June, July, August, September, and December; 2 Learning Modules per month in October and November.
When are the Live Learning Modules held?
Modules are scheduled in the evenings to accommodate schedules across time zones with most programming being held from 5pm-7pm CST.
Is this program only for young farmers?
No. FarmPath is open to adults at all stages, including career changers, early-stage farmers, and those looking to transform an existing farm operation. The program is designed for anyone who is motivated and committed to building a viable farm business.
Is this the only way to join FarmPath?
Yes. This application is the sole entry point into the program. After March 31, no further applications will be accepted for the entire three-year program.
How much does FarmPath cost?
FarmPath is completely free for participants. FarmPath is a program of Farm Foundation and is fully supported by The Mosaic Company Foundation for Sustainable Food Systems and the PepsiCo Foundation, so there is no cost to you. All training, mentorship, and resources are provided at no charge.
How many participants will be accepted?
The program will enroll up to 300 participants in Year 1 for the LEARN phase. Of those, up to 75 participants will be selected to continue into Years 2 and 3 for intensive mentorship and business development support, including up to $10,000 to help implement their business plan.
Do I need to already own a farm to participate?
No, you do not need to currently own or operate a farm. FarmPath is designed for aspiring farmers and those in the early stages of their farming journey. You do not need to already own land or operate a full-time farm to apply.
What types of farming does FarmPath support?
FarmPath supports all types of agricultural operations, including specialty crops, market gardening, livestock, row crop production, urban farming, and more. The program focuses on business fundamentals that apply across all farming types.
Is the program entirely virtual?
Year 1 is primarily virtual with live learning modules and recorded sessions available at your convenience. An online learning community for peer-to-peer support, learning, networking, and collaboration will also be available. Years 2 and 3 include access to in-person learning and networking opportunities alongside continued virtual support.
How are the 75 participants selected for years 2 & 3?
Access to Years 2 and 3 are not guaranteed for every Year 1 participant. Advancement will be competitive and is based on a variety of factors, including Year 1 engagement through community participation, completion of Learning Modules, the commitment to building a viable business plan, and timely reapplications.
What happens after the 3-year program?
Graduates of FarmPath receive lifetime access to our alumni network, continued resources, and ongoing support. The goal is to set you up for long-term success in your farming operation.
To stay up to date on news and opportunities from Farm Foundation, click here.
Whether you have questions about the program, eligibility, or just want to learn more, our team is here to help you on your farming journey.
Fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you within 2 business days.
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Farm Foundation is an independent, nonpartisan organization invested in building a vibrant future for food and agriculture. We bring together people with diverse perspectives to exchange ideas, spark collaboration, and turn insight into action.
FarmPath reflects Farm Foundation’s long-standing commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.