Within North Carolina farmers have the opportunity to attend the Executive Farm Management program for an intensive, two-week professional development experience designed for progressive farm owners, operators and decision-makers who want to improve the profitability, sustainability and long-term success of their operations. This effort includes hands-on learning, real-world case studies and direct interaction with industry experts, participants gain practical tools they can immediately apply to their farm businesses. However, it is one of the few fee-based programs provided by NC Extension. For those that have an interest in the program but have felt that it is cost-prohibitive, there may be a solution!

Last year five farmers partnered with the Albemarle Commission's Incumbent Workers Training Program, and each of them was able to attend the EFM program for free, a savings of $5,000 each. There are a few stipulations associated with this grant but any decent-sized full-time farming operation should qualify to apply for the funds. As such, if interested, the director of this program, Dr. Michael Best is willing to consider someone. Simply contact him at 919-515-4655 or by email to: mjbest@ncsu.edu.

If interested, do not delay. To reserve your spot in the 2027 program, registration and a $500 deposit are required by November 1, 2026.

Note that actual cost of the program typically is about $12,000 per person. However, the North Carolina Trust Fund Commission provide funding to reduce the individual cost to $5,000. Now, thanks to additional partners, some may qualify to attend free. Contact Dr. Michael Best for more details or visit the NC Extension Executive Farm Management website.