For many years, the Vermont SBDC has served the Vermont agricultural community through work with farmers, processors, and ag-related businesses. We have helped with business planning, budgeting, marketing, loan applications, human resources management, risk management, and other essential activities.

Currently there are two VtSBDC advisors that have extensive backgrounds in organic farming, poultry, beef, and forage production. We have assisted dairy, organic vegetable, cheese, apple, and horse farms as well as meat and poultry producers, processors, and agri-tourism.

The assistance of the VtSBDC is focused on business planning and financial management. Through the use of budgets and projections, farmers are better able to look at and plan their business activities.

Farm Viability Program

In 2004, the Vermont SBDC became a participant in the Farm Viability Enhancement Program of the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board. This program was created by the VHCB in collaboration with the Vermont Agency of Agriculture to provide technical assistance and business planning services to farmers to help increase their ability to achieve viability.

The SBDC serves as a consultant to the program to work directly with farmers in order to help them achieve their personal and business goals. In addition to our direct work within the Farm Viability Enhancement Program, the SBDC advisors around the state are available on an ongoing basis to assist farmers with implementation and revision of plans.

Training

In 2005, the SBDC in cooperation with UVM Extension, is presenting Tilling the Soil of Opportunity value-added agricultural training in three locations around the state. Forty-four participants attend the twelve-week course that covers a broad range of planning and business topics for the value-added producer.

For information on how we may assist you, please contact your Regional Vermont SBDC office or contact:

Steve Paddock
VtSBDC Agricultural Program Director
Addison County Economic Development Corporation
1590 Route 7 South
Middlebury, VT 05753

Telephone: (802)388-7953

E-Mail: spaddock@vtsbdc.org

The Small Business Development Center is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration.  SBA's funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions, or services.  Co-sponsorship #01.0150.19.  All SBA funded programs are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis.  Arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made at all times in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 and associated amendments.  Arrangements for persons with special needs will be made if requested two weeks in advance.  Contact Delaney Meeting & Event Management, One Main Street. #36, Winooski, VT 05404.   802-655-7769.