Tools and Resources
Farming and living in the country can provide challenges. The Experts in Rural Finance at Colonial Farm Credit are here to help with tools to assist you. As always, feel free to give us a call with any questions. Click here to find your local office.
AgBIZINFO - Start.Farm.Grow
Brought to you by Farm Credit, AgBizInfo is the most comprehensive source of education and business resources for young, beginning, and small farmers and ranchers in the United States. AgBizInfo gives you the tools and information you need to start and grow your farming operation and connects you with local Farm Credit lenders that support rural communities and agriculture. Click here to visit the AgBizInfo website.
AgBiz Programs Through Farm Credit University
AgBiz Basics
This online course is designed for individuals who are thinking about, or in the beginning stages of starting a farming operation. This fast-paced online program is designed to help participants develop an understanding of basic financial statements, credit scores, cash flow, and how these things impact their current or future farm. Ag Biz Basics also helps prepare participants to meet with a lender. This program can be taken at any time during the year.
AgBiz Planner
The Virginia and North Carolina Farm Credit Associations are proud to offer the AgBiz planner program each year. Designed for individuals who are already farming, this course is more in-depth and offers participants the opportunity to create a business plan specifically for their farming operation.This six month, college-level, online program is designed to educate young and beginning farmers on successfully managing their operations. The 10 online modules cover various topics such as strategic business planning, preparing financial statements, and growth and transition management. Click here for more information on the program and module topics.
For more information on the AgBiz Planner Program, please contact your local Farm Credit office.
Business Operation and Planning Resources
Five Steps for Beginning Farmers - Five tips to help you get started running a farm.
Videos
Building a Balance Sheet
Learn the main elements of a balance sheet and the importance of having a current balance sheet for your operation.