New and Beginning Farmers

I Want to Start a Farm...

So you want to start a farm, but where do you begin? Whether it's cultivating crops, raising livestock, or embracing sustainable practices, the journey to farming success is both rewarding and challenging. From selecting the right land and equipment to understanding market demands and navigating regulations, every step shapes your agricultural venture. With dedication and knowledge, you can sow the seeds for a thriving farm that not only sustains but also flourishes in today's dynamic agricultural landscape.Starting or inheriting a farm is a large undertaking that requires careful planning and dedication. Take advantage of the guide below and the attached resources to have a good foundation!

Accessing Farmland

Land in Cabarrus County can be expensive and hard to access for beginning farmers, however there are some excellent resources to help you get started. Leasing land is or connecting with our incubator farm are also great options.

NC Farm Link - Connects those seeking land to available land for sale.

Lomax Farms - This is an 'incubator farm' right here in Cabarrus County! At Lomax, you can access not only training sessions but also lease small land plots to kick-start your farming journey.

Funding

If you're thinking about launching a farm business, you might find it beneficial to seek additional financial support. Depending on your circumstances as a landowner, options such as land loans, operational loans, or microloans could be suitable. Consulting with a business advisor or loan officer can provide valuable insights into potential funding opportunities.There are many funding and grant opportunities available to new and beginning farmers. USDA offers the Beginning Farmer Program that is a great resource as well. Check out the links below and connect with your local extension agent to discuss specific funding opportunities.

Working with an agricultural lender such as Carolina Farm Credit to secure loans.The Conservation Fund is a non-profit organization working with farmers to conserve agricultural land across the country. They also offer funding to new farmers, known as the "Working Farm Fund".

Taxes

Farming participants are required to report all profits and losses to the IRS using Schedule F. Lenders often request Schedule F documentation to verify your status as a legitimate farmer.

Farm businesses are required to report income and losses to the state Department of Revenue. The DOR offers guidance on tax rates applicable to various agricultural products and grants tax exemptions to eligible farmers.

There are also specific tax exemptions available for producers in Cabarrus County, outlined here.

Read this article from NCSU about taxes for small farmers.

USDA Taxes for Farmers

Farmers Tax Guide

Insurance

Farming inherently involves interactions with the public, whether through the sale of farm products, proximity to farming activities on adjacent land, or encounters in public spaces like roads and markets. Occasionally, these interactions result in injuries. When such incidents occur, a two-part investigation ensues: determining if the injury stems from the farmer’s operations and assessing the responsibility of the farm operator or landowner for the resulting damages. The following links discuss these issues within the contexts of food safety, farm and land safety, and the safe operation of vehicles in public areas. Additionally, it explores the farmer's risk management decisions, particularly regarding the purchase of insurance to cover and address injury claims arising from farming activities. There is also new opportunities through USDA specifically for small farms.

Regulations

There are diverse regulations governing the sale of farm products. It's important to familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal regulations that apply to your situation.

The Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA) comprises federal laws outlining mandatory steps for produce growers to mitigate food safety risks. Certain products are exempt from FSMA regulations, and exemptions also exist based on sales volume and market destinations. It is advisable for produce growers to adopt Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs). Additionally, some buyers may stipulate GAP certification as a prerequisite for engaging in contracts with growers.

Training and Certifications

NC Farm School refers to a program designed to educate and support aspiring farmers in North Carolina. It typically offers comprehensive training and resources to help participants develop the skills and knowledge necessary to start and manage successful farming enterprises. NC Farm School often covers topics such as business planning, marketing strategies, crop production, livestock management, and financial management tailored to the specific agricultural landscape and market conditions in North Carolina. The program includes workshops, field days, mentorship opportunities, and access to agricultural experts to provide practical guidance and support for new and transitioning farmers.

Animal Welfare Certifications

Piedmont Grown

National Organic Program

Certified Naturally Grown

Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Certification

In Cabarrus County, there's a wealth of opportunities for business owners, regardless of their industry or scale, through a variety of classes and workshops tailored to meet their specific needs and challenges. These resources aim to empower entrepreneurs with essential skills and knowledge crucial for thriving in today's competitive market landscape.

Small Business Center

Small Business and Technology Development Center

Grow Cabarrus

Starting a Business in Cabarrus County

CEFS Farm Apprenticeships

Developing your Business Plan with AgPlan