Are you ready to take your farm business to the next level? The North Carolina Farm School (NCFS) South Central program is designed to help beginning and transitioning farmers develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to grow a successful farm business.
Why Apply?
By participating in NC Farm School, you will:
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Learn from experts: Gain hands-on experience and classroom instruction covering farm business planning, marketing, and practical farm management.
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Develop a business plan: The program guides you through creating a comprehensive business plan for your farm.
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Connect with peers: Network with other farmers and industry professionals, building a supportive community.
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Visit real farms: Apply what you learn through on-farm visits and interactive activities.
2026 Session Locations & Dates
Virtual Orientation: Zoom session on March 2 | 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
In-Person Sessions: Mondays, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (unless otherwise noted)
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March 16: Mecklenburg County Center | 2415 Lester St, Charlotte, NC 28208
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April 20: Rowan County Center | 1959 Jake Alexander Blvd W #1400, Salisbury, NC 28147
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May 18: Iredell County Center | 444 Bristol Dr, Statesville, NC 28677
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June 15: Cabarrus County Center | 715 Cabarrus Ave W, Concord, NC 28027
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June 29: Graduation Dinner | Cabarrus County | 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. | Location TBD
Program Cost
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Joint Registration (two team members): $550
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Single Registration: $300
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Payment will be requested along with your acceptance letter.
How to Apply
Applications will be reviewed monthly starting late October, with acceptance notifications sent soon after. Class size is limited to 35 participants, and registration will close when the class fills or on February 2, whichever comes first.
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Apply Now: NCFS South Central 2026 Registration Form
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Questions? Contact Derek Washburn at dawashbu@ncsu.edu or 919-515-4614
Commitment
The NC Farm School is a series program, designed to be completed in full. Individual session attendance is not offered, as the program builds toward completing a business plan and developing a holistic understanding of farm management.
