By Scout Nelson
Starting a farm business goes beyond growing food—it’s about learning the skills to manage and succeed. For beginners, the right support can make all the difference. That’s where mentorships and apprenticeships come in.
In Missouri, the New Growth Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Program offers free mentorships to individuals aged 18 or older with less than 10 years of farming experience. These one-on-one sessions are guided by experienced mentors and can be held online, in person, or both. Participants receive at least 10 hours of mentorship tailored to their goals. Topics include specialty crops, livestock, urban farming, and more.
To connect with others and learn more, you can join monthly “Farmer to Farmer” meetings hosted by New Growth, available both online and in-person.
For those wanting more hands-on experience, New Growth also collaborates with Growing Growers Kansas City to offer apprenticeships in Missouri and eastern Kansas. This program is open to anyone aged 16 or older and provides flexible work schedules with host farms.
There are two learning tracks:
- Farm Apprenticeship: $500, includes 20–40 hours per week of farm work plus one-on-one training.
- Explore Farming: $250, includes 4–8 hours per week at nonprofit farms.
Both tracks offer:
- Real-world experience on a farm of your choice
- A 12-month online course
- In-person workshops and tours
- A chance to earn while learning
- Scholarships and networking support
These programs help you build farming skills, avoid beginner mistakes, and confidently step into farm life.
For details, scholarships, or to apply, contact Bridget Luff, Farm Outreach Coordinator, at bluff@newgrowthmo.org or 660-476-2185 ext. 3103.
Take your first step toward a farm career—mentorship or apprenticeship can be the perfect start.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran
Categories: Kansas, Business