There are few enterprises as rewarding, or challenging, as running a family farm and those new to the agriculture game can benefit from some sage advice. That’s the goal of a nationwide program called “Young Agrarians.”

Young Agrarians is a nationwide network for experienced farmers and producers giving a leg up to the future of agriculture, a farmer-to-farmer network that aims to funnel the expertise of the experienced and share it with those up-and-coming producers so a new generation of farmers doesn’t have to re-invent the wheel.

“New and young farmers are seeking guidance for the future amidst changes in markets, the climate crisis, farm business transitions, and rural demographic shifts,” stated Tori Ames, business mentorship network coordinator-Alberta Young Agrarians c/o Agrarians Foundation, in a Sept. 3 press release. “Building a strong business foundation on top of the challenges of farming can feel overwhelming, but with the support of the program and the mentors, the new farmer’s confidence and clarity grow.

“There is an ongoing need for mentorship programs to provide spaces where farmers can talk openly about business challenges and wins, build business skills, and figure out, together, how to make their farms work. Young Agrarians is Canada’s largest educational farmer-to-farmer resource network focused on growing new and young farmers.

“Farmers eligible to apply as mentees are in their first one to 10 years in business, including new and expanding farm operations as well as those taking over the family farm business. Experienced farmers keen to support the next generation are also encouraged to apply to fill paid mentor positions.”

Ames explained that the 12-month mentorship program includes 30 hours of direct farmer-to-farmer mentorship, regular peer meet-ups, a farm business webinar series and access to further resources and referrals. Ames observed the program’s been running for a few years and already has results.

“The program began in B.C., expanded to offer mentorships in the prairie provinces in 2023, and now accepts applications from across Canada,” stated Ames. “To date, the program has worked with 199 farmers on 136 farms supported by 81 mentors. When comparing the season of mentorship to the previous year, the average outcomes include an increase of 81 per cent in revenues, a 61 per cent increase in production, and a 61 per cent increase in land used.”

The program is inclusive of a wide range of production types, including vegetables, mushrooms, flowers, bees, livestock and many mixed operations.

Ames noted whether you’re a newer producer looking for some advice or a veteran who wants to share their wealth of experience, the program wants to hear from you. “Applications for new mentee participants are open for Oct., so check out the website for more information and to access the application,” stated the press release. “If you are interested in being a paid mentor you can also find the mentor application form on the website, www.youngagrarians.org.”

The Young Agrarians Business Mentorship Network is funded by the Government of Canada through Pacific Economic Development Canada and Prairies Economic Development Canada and by Vancity.