Planning | University of Maryland Extension

Updated: January 21, 2025

Mastering Marketing for New and Beginning Farmers

Sales are one-time transactions. Marketing is the process by which you identify a group of people who are willing and able to become and to remain your customers. As a new farmer, you won't have established relationships with customers and potential buyers, yet. You must determine who wants and /or needs your products. These are your potential customers. Marketing takes time. But, it can be one of the most cost-effective uses of time in your business. Author: Ginger Myers; Title: Mastering Marketing for New and Beginning Farmers (FS-1139)

Updated: December 10, 2024

Horse Boarding Enterprise

If you’re looking for something that is predictable and never varies from day to day, do not get involved with horses! When horses are involved, you will never have a “normal” day again.

Updated: December 10, 2024

Marketing Farm Raised Meats Module

Are you a small livestock farmer in Maryland wanting to capitalize on your urban location and strong demand for locally produced meats? If so, this web module, Farm to Table Marketing Model for Small Farm Meat Producers, was created specifically for you. This module delivers educational materials developed for several training sessions by educators and professionals who are highly knowledgeable and who are presently engaged in Farm-to-Table production and marketing.

Updated: November 7, 2024

Cultivating Entrepreneurship

Thinking about starting or expanding an agricultural or food-related business but not sure where to start? Book an entrepreneurial coaching session with The University of Maryland’s Entrepreneurial Coaching Team for farm and food entrepreneurs.

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Updated: May 2, 2024

The 4 “Ships “of Beginning Farming (Or Any Start-up Business) Part 1: Mentorship

For any start-up business venture or new learning challenges there are four “ships” in the road map to success: mentorship, relationships, partnerships, and ownership.

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Updated: May 2, 2024

The 4 “Ships" of Beginning Farming (Or Any Start-up Business) Part 2: Relationships

Farming is a relationship-centered industry. This article will introduce you to key relationships a beginning farmer or agricultural entrepreneur should cultivate.

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Updated: September 6, 2023

Trending Enterprises in Maryland

Updated: April 12, 2023

Starting a Farm Enterprise in Maryland (EBR-2022-0648)

Starting a farm or adding a new farm enterprise can be an enjoyable and attractive business decision. This factsheet lists contacts and resources to explore as you consider a new or expanding farm enterprise. Resources from government agencies and organizations provide production information vital for starting and operating a successful farm business. Author: Shannon Dill; Title: Starting a Farm Enterprise in Maryland (EBR-2022-0648)

Updated: January 12, 2023

Takeaways from the 1st Annual Mushroom Growers Symposium

Advice for those currently growing or considering cultivating mushrooms in Maryland, from the 1st Annual Mushroom Growers Symposium

Updated: November 1, 2022

Food Processing in Maryland

Are you a specialty food entrepreneur? If so, check out the Food Processing in Maryland module. This invaluable module provides information about how to sell and process food in Maryland. This module will include rules for specific foods and important regulatory information. Our interactive map of Maryland's regulatory environment provides you with location-specific contacts.