Next Generation

Young Farmer Accelerator Program

Helping young farmers gain deeper understanding and build strong networks.

The 2023 Young Farmer Accelerator Program Cohort

Jake Bailey
British Griffis -cropped
image_6483441

Jake Bailey
Director of Operations
Mossy Creek Cattle

British Griffis
Farmer
Harvest OG Urban Farm and Goods

Natalie Heim
Co-Owner
Rowdy Red Ranch

Corey Johnson Pic
Blake Lanphier Cropped
Darius McKoy cropped

Corey Johnson
Owner/Operator
Johnson Farms

Blake Lanphier
Farm Operations Manager
Historic Wagner Farm

Darius McKoy
Co-CEO
12:03 Farm

Shameeka McKoy cropped
Teresa Thomas Pic-cropped

Shameeka McKoy
Co-CEO
12:03 Farm

Teresa Thomas
Chief Plant Curator
Crazy Plant Bae

About the Program

This program seeks to actively engage farmers from 21-40 years old in a yearlong series of interactive learning and networking experiences, focused on gaining a deeper understanding of a wide variety of agriculture, agribusiness, and government issues. The program also helps young farmers build a strong, enduring network of peers and agribusiness and government contacts. Participants are sponsored to attend events, engage in virtual conversations, and participate in exclusive learning opportunities.

Young Farmers engage in a variety of activities, including: developing working relationships with peers and a senior agribusiness/farmer mentor; attending Farm Foundation Round Table meetings to network and learn from industry leaders; and other unique opportunities for personal and professional development.