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Free Agriculture Sample Business Plan PDF + How to Write

Elon Glucklich

6 min. read

Updated February 7, 2024

Free Download:  Agriculture Business Plan Template

As a farmer, you’re in the business of putting food on the table. Agriculture is one of the world’s oldest professions.

Today it accounts for over 5% of U.S. Gross Domestic Product, and 1 in 10 American workers are in agriculture, food, and related industries.

But starting a new agriculture business requires intensive planning and upfront preparation. If you’re looking for a free, downloadable agriculture sample business plan PDF to help you create a business plan of your own, look no further.

Keep in mind that you don’t need to find a sample business plan that exactly matches your farm. Whether you’re launching a larger agricultural business outside a bustling city or a smaller organic operation, the details will be different, but the foundation of the plan will be the same. 

Are you writing a business plan for your farm because you’re seeking a loan? Is your primary concern outlining a clear path for sales growth? Either way, you’re going to want to edit and customize it so it fits your particular farm. 

No two agriculture farming businesses are alike.

For example, your strategy will be very different if you’re a dairy operation instead of a soybean farm. So take the time to create your own financial forecasts and do enough market research for your specific type of agriculture so you have a solid plan for success. 

• What should you include in an agriculture farm business plan?

Your agriculture business plan doesn’t need to be hundreds of pages—keep it as short and focused as you can. You’ll probably want to include each of these sections: 

1. Executive summary

An overview of your agriculture business, with a brief description of your products or services, your legal structure, and a snapshot of your future plans. While it’s the first part of the plan, it’s often easier to write your executive summary last.

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2. Business summary and funding needs

Details about your farming operation, including how much capital you will need and the types of funding you’re considering. Include your business history, your current state, and your future projections. It should also cover your business location, the equipment and facilities needed, and the kinds of crops or livestock you plan to raise.

3. Products and services

Provide details on the types of crops, farming methods, and any value-added products you plan to offer, such as finished goods or even  agritourism offerings .

4. Marketing plan

Compile your market research findings, including the demand for your products or services, your target customers , and your competitors. It should also outline your marketing strategy—how you plan to attract and retain customers. 

5. Financial plan

Your revenue projections, cost estimates, and break-even analysis. Your financial plan and forecasts should demonstrate that your business has a path to profitability.

• Building on your farm business plan sample

With a free agriculture business plan template as your starting point, you can start chipping away at the unique elements of your business plan.

As the business owner, only you can speak to aspects of your agriculture operation like your mission and core values.

You’re putting in the long hours to start a thriving farm business, so aspects of your mission – like a commitment to sustainable farming practices – will be best explained in your own words. Authenticity will help you connect with a growing market of consumers who value transparency and environmental stewardship in their food sources.

As for more conventional aspects of business planning , you will want to take on things like your marketing and financial plans one at a time. Here are a few specific areas to focus on when writing your business plan.

Invest time in market research

Starting an agriculture operation requires significant startup costs. When you throw in the unique land use considerations involved, it’s crucial to conduct thorough market research before investing hundreds of thousands – or even millions – of dollars into a farm business.

Start by researching the types of farms operating in your locality and wider region, and the specific crops or livestock they specialize in. You will need to understand seasonal trends, including crop yields and livestock productivity.

Note the demographics of the local community to understand their buying habits and preference for local produce. Also, be aware of the competitive landscape and how your farm can differentiate itself from others. All of this information will inform your service, pricing, marketing, and partnership strategy.

From there, you can outline how you plan to reach your target market and promote your farm’s offerings.

Craft your agriculture go-to-market strategy

One of the things that makes an agriculture farm business plan different from some service-based business plans is that you might decide to work only with one or two businesses that purchase your goods.  

You may offer different tiers of products to different types of buyers, such as produce for an organic farmers market, and corn for another farm’s animal feed. If that’s the case, make sure you include ideas like setting aside land for organic growth and maintenance.

Discuss your advertising and promotional strategies, emphasizing channels relevant to your target market. Also, consider how partnerships with local businesses, farmers’ markets, and other industry stakeholders can enhance your visibility.

Include your pricing strategy and any special promotions or loyalty programs. Also, consider public relations and media outreach efforts that can raise awareness about your farm and its sustainable practices.

Prepare for unique farming challenges

Running an agricultural business comes with its own set of challenges, including weather-related disruptions and market volatility. Your business plan should identify these potential risks and present contingency plans to address them.

Include a plan to mitigate weather-related risks, such as crop diversification, employing weather-resistant farming practices, investing in appropriate infrastructure like greenhouses or drainage systems, or taking out insurance to cover weather-related losses.

Detail the operational aspects of your business , including land ownership, employee status, farm maintenance, and safety requirements. Also, illustrate your strategies for managing crop production, livestock care, land stewardship, and regulatory compliance.

Plan for the future

Contingency planning is important in all businesses.

But the unique challenges in agriculture of changing market dynamics, regulatory changes, and climate impacts make it especially necessary to plan for the future. Detail how you’ll measure success, and how you will be prepared to adapt your offerings if you need to change the focus of the business due to factors outside your control.

Also, be ready to discuss opportunities for scaling your business over time, such as introducing new crops, expanding farm operations, or opening additional locations.

• Get started with your farm business plan sample

There are obviously plenty of reasons farm owners can benefit from writing a business plan — for example, you’ll need one if you’re seeking a loan or investment. Even if you’re not seeking funding, the process of thinking through every aspect of your business will help you make sure you’re not overlooking anything critical as you grow.

Download this  agriculture farm sample business plan PDF  for free right now, or visit  Bplans’ gallery of more than 550 sample business plans  if you’re looking for more options.

See why 1.2 million entrepreneurs have written their business plans with LivePlan

Elon is a marketing specialist at Palo Alto Software, working with consultants, accountants, business instructors and others who use LivePlan at scale. He has a bachelor's degree in journalism and an MBA from the University of Oregon.

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Farm Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 3,500 farmers create business plans to start and grow their farm businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a farm business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Farm Business Plan Template here >

What is a Farm Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your farm business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Farm

If you’re looking to start a farm business or grow your existing farm business you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your farm business in order to improve your chances of success. Your farm business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes. It can be used to create a vegetable farm business plan, or a dairy farm, produce farm, fruit farm, agriculture farm and more.

Source of Funding for Farm Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a farm business are personal savings, bank loans and angel investors. With regards to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to confirm that your financials are reasonable. But they will want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business.

The second most common form of funding for a farm business is angel investors. Angel investors are wealthy individuals who will write you a check. They will either take equity in return for their funding, or, like a bank, they will give you a loan.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

Your business plan should include 10 sections as follows:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of farm business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a farm business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of farm businesses.

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the farm business industry. Discuss the type of farm business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of farm business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types among others:

• Vegetable Farm : this type of farm grows a wide variety of vegetables (but not grains or soybeans) and melons in open fields and in greenhouses.
• Dairy Farm : this type of farm primarily raises cattle for milk. Typically, this type of farm does not process the milk into cheeses or butter, etc.
• Fruit Farm : this type of farm primarily grows fruits.
• Hay and Crop Farm : More than half of these types of farms grow hay, while a small number grow sugar beets. A variety of other crops, such as hops and herbs, are included in the industry. Some operators also gather agave, spices, tea and maple sap.
• Industrial Hemp Farm : this type of farm grows and harvests cannabis plants with a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content of less than 0.3% by weight.
• Plant & Flower Farm : this type of farm grows nursery plants, such as trees and shrubs; flowering plants, such as foliage plants, cut flowers, flower seeds and ornamentals; and short rotation woody trees, such as Christmas trees and cottonwoods.
• Vertical Farming : This type of farm involves growing crops in vertically stacked layers, often using controlled environment agriculture (CEA) technologies. This method dramatically reduces the amount of land space needed for farming and can increase crop yields.

In addition to explaining the type of farm business you operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include sales goals you’ve reached, acquisition of additional acreage, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the farm business.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the farm business industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy particularly if your research identifies market trends. For example, if there was a trend towards decaffeinated farm business consumption, it would be helpful to ensure your plan calls for plenty of decaffeinated options.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your farm business plan:

• How big is the farm business (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your farm business. You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your farm business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: food manufacturers, grocery wholesalers, retail grocers, restaurants, individual consumers, etc.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of farm business you operate. Clearly food manufacturers would want different pricing and product options, and would respond to different marketing promotions than retail grocers.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other farm businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes processed foods, imported goods, and growing produce themselves. You need to mention such competition to show you understand the true nature of the market.

With regards to direct competition, you want to detail the other farm businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be farm businesses located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What products do they offer?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide superior products?
• Will you provide products that your competitors don’t offer?
• Will you make it easier or faster for customers to acquire your products?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a farm business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : in the product section you should reiterate the type of farm business that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to wholesale crops, will you also offer subscriptions to individuals?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the products you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your farm. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your farm centrally located near gourmet restaurants and specialty grocers, etc. Discuss how your location might provide a steady stream of customers. Also, if you operate or plan to operate farm stands, detail the locations where the stands will be placed.

Promotions : the final part of your farm business marketing plan is the promotions section. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Making your farm stand extra appealing to attract passing customers
• Distributing produce samples from the farm stand or at farmers markets 
• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local bloggers and websites 
• Local radio advertising
• Banner ads at local venues

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your farm business such as serving customers, delivering produce, harvesting, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to serve your 1,000th customer, or when you hope to reach $X in sales. It could also be when you expect to hire your Xth employee or acquire more arable land.

Management Team

To demonstrate your farm business’s ability to succeed as a business, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in farming. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in farming and/or successfully running small businesses.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 100 customers per week or 200? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : While balance sheets include much information, to simplify them to the key items you need to know about, balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. For instance, if you spend $100,000 on building out your farm, that will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $100.000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. For example, let’s say a company approached you with a massive $100,000 supplier contract, that would cost you $50,000 to fulfill. Well, in most cases, you would have to pay that $50,000 now for seed, equipment, employee salaries, etc. But let’s say the company didn’t pay you for 180 days. During that 180 day period, you could run out of money.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a farm business:

• Location build-out including barn construction, land preparation, etc.
• Cost of equipment like tractors and attachments, silos, barns, etc.
• Cost of nutrients and maintaining machinery
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Your new farm’s business plan must include a detailed financial plan based on reasonable assumptions of your costs and revenues. To determine if the results you show in this plan will be attractive to investors, look at industry standard financial metrics to see how you measure up against the farming industry, or your sector of the industry, on average. These are some basic measures and ratios to study.

Value of Production

The value of production is equal to your farm’s cash receipts plus the changes in value of product inventory and accounts receivable, less your livestock purchases. This is a measure of the value of the commodities you have produced in the period.

Net Farm Income

The NFI or net farm income, represents the value of production less direct and capital costs in the time period. This is a dollar figure, and not a ratio relating the income to the investment made, so it cannot be used to compare the farm against other farms.

Gross Margin

This represents the NFI less depreciation. The gross margin shows how much money is available in the year to cover the unallocated fixed costs, and dividends to owners and unpaid operators.

Return on Farm Assets

This is a ratio that can be used to compare the farm with others. This is calculated as NFI plus interest expense less unpaid operator labor, all divided by the total assets of the farm.

Asset Turnover Ratio

This ratio is equal to the value or production over the total farm assets. Combined with the operating profit margin ratio, this shows the efficiency of the farm in generating revenues.

Operating Profit Margin Ratio

This ratio is similar to Return on Farm Assets, but divides the same numerator (NFI plus interest expense less unpaid operator labor) by the value of production figure. This shows the percentage of each revenue dollar that becomes profit. If it is low, a higher turnover can compensate, and if it is high, a lower turnover ratio is required.

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your store design blueprint or location lease.

Farm Business Plan Summary

Putting together a business plan for your farm business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. It can be used for a small farm business plan template or any other type of farm. You will really understand the farm business, your competition and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful farm business.

Download Our Farm Business Plan PDF

You can download our farm business plan PDF here . This is a small farm business plan example pdf you can use in PDF format.  

Farm Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my farm business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Farm Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Farm Business Plan.

Where Can I Download a Free Farm Business Plan Example PDF?

You can download our farm business plan PDF template here . This is an example business plan template you can use in PDF format.

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Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Agricultural Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Agricultural Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your Agricultural business plan.

We have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their Agricultural companies.

Below is a template to help you create each section of your Agricultural business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Schrute’s Roots is a startup agricultural business that produces crops for Scranton, Pennsylvania and the surrounding area. Schrute’s Roots will specifically grow root vegetables, including potatoes, onions, and beets. The company’s mission statement is to work hard to grow these vegetables organically and without any chemicals. We will sell our produce at local farmer’s markets as well as to local restaurants and other establishments that would like to use or sell our produce.

Schrute’s Roots is owned and led by Dwight Schrute. Dwight has been a farm operations manager for the past twenty years, bringing a plethora of knowledge and skills that will prove to be invaluable to all aspects of the business. After working as a farm operations manager, Dwight desired to run his own agricultural farm business that grows organic produce and benefits the local community. He will utilize his prior knowledge and experience to manage crop production, operations, and other aspects of the business.

Product Offering

Schrute’s Roots grows a variety of root vegetables for Scranton, Pennsylvania and the local community. All produce will be organically grown. We alternate our crops, so the exact crops that are grown will be dependent on the season and current crop cycle. Some crops that we plan to grow include the following:

Customer Focus

Schrute’s Roots will primarily serve the residents and businesses of Scranton, Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas. Any individual or establishment that is interested in purchasing our crops is welcome to partner with us. We will sell our crops to individuals at local farmer’s markets and directly to wholesalers, grocery stores, and restaurants.

Management Team

Schrute’s Roots’ most valuable asset is the expertise and experience of its founder, Dwight Schrute. Dwight has been a farm operations manager for the past twenty years, bringing a plethora of knowledge and skills that will prove to be invaluable to all aspects of the business. After working as a farm operations manager, Dwight desired to run his own agricultural business that grows organic produce and benefits the local community. He will utilize his prior knowledge and experience to manage crop production, operations, and other aspects of the business.

Success Factors

Schrute’s Roots will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Management: Schrute’s Roots’ management team has years of experience in agricultural operations, which will prove invaluable to all aspects of the business.
• Relationships: Having lived in the community for twenty years, Dwight Schrute knows all of the local leaders, media, and other influencers. As such, it will be relatively easy for Schrute’s Roots to build brand awareness and an initial customer base.
• Quality products at affordable pricing: Schrute’s Roots will provide quality products at affordable pricing, as it has high-quality equipment and uses the latest techniques.

Financial Highlights

Schrute’s Roots is currently seeking $750,000 to start the company. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the land and purchasing equipment and supplies. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs and marketing costs. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Land: $200,000
• Equipment: $200,000
• Three Months of Overhead Expenses (payroll, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing Costs: $100,000
• Working Capital: $100,000

The following graph below outlines the pro forma financial projections for Schrute’s Roots.

Company Overview

Who is schrute’s roots.

Schrute’s Roots is a startup agricultural business that produces crops for Scranton, Pennsylvania and the surrounding area. Schrute’s Roots will specifically grow root vegetables, including potatoes, onions, and beets. The company’s mission is to grow vegetables organically and without any chemicals. We will sell our produce at local farmer’s markets as well as to local restaurants and other establishments that would like to use or sell our produce.

  Schrute’s Roots is owned and led by Dwight Schrute. Dwight has been a farm operations manager for the past twenty years, bringing a plethora of knowledge and skills that will prove to be invaluable to all aspects of the business. After working as a farm operations manager, Dwight desired to run his own agricultural business that grows organic produce and benefits the local community. He will utilize his prior knowledge and experience to manage crop production, operations, and other aspects of the business.

Schrute’s Roots’ History

Dwight Schrute incorporated Schrute’s Roots as an S-corporation on May 1st, 2023. The operations aspects of the business will be run from Dwight’s home, while the agricultural aspects will be run from the land purchased for crop production.

Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:

• Found land to grow the crops and wrote a letter of intent to purchase it
• Developed the company’s name, logo, and website
• Determined agricultural equipment and inventory requirements
• Began recruiting key employees

Schrute’s Roots’ Services

Industry analysis.

The agricultural industry is vital to all communities. The crops and products grown by local farmers and crop production companies are essential to the health of local communities. They provide jobs to the locals and result in locally grown food that the nearby residents can purchase. Larger agriculture businesses do not offer these benefits to smaller communities. Because of this, there has been a greater demand and emphasis on the sustainability of local agricultural companies that can directly benefit the local community.

Furthermore, market research shows that local communities are demanding that crop production and other agricultural companies grow their products organically. Organic foods are much healthier for individuals to eat because they provide more nutrition and aren’t laced with chemicals. Improved technology and research into organic methods are making this form of crop production more profitable and sustainable.

Therefore, with the increasing demand for local organic farms, we are confident that Schrute’s Roots will succeed in the local market and benefit the residents of the Scranton area.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Schrute’s Roots will serve the industries and community residents of Scranton, Pennsylvania and its surrounding areas. We will sell our produce at farmer’s markets to individuals and directly to establishments that wish to partner with us.

The demographics of Scranton, Pennsylvania are as follows:

Customer Segmentation

Schrute’s target audience segments include:

• Individuals
• Restaurants
• Grocery Stores

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Schrute’s Roots will face competition from other agriculture businesses. A description of each competitor company is below.

AgraFarm is one of the largest raw food manufacturers in the U.S., owning a 15,000-acre farm for agriculture. It has well-established connections with big FMCG companies and has been thriving in the agricultural industry for 12 years. It also has automated equipment and machines, which helps in improving its operations and reducing costs. AgraFarm is also known for delivering large orders at the right time without delay.

BDA Farms was established in 1998. BDA Farms is a very well-known company that provides good quality organic produce to companies. It also has a very good brand value, and its product packaging is second to none. BDA Farms is located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, and it has a very effective distribution and supply chain network.

BeetFarms was initially a beets producer company and then branched out to other vegetables. BeetFarms is now one of the ten largest vegetable producers in the state. The Company’s packaging and processing units are located in Scranton, Pennsylvania. It has recently acquired other local vegetable producers, expanding its operations as well as limiting the variety of farms producing vegetables for the community.

Competitive Advantage

Schrute’s Roots will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Schrute’s Roots will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Production of high-quality organic produce
• Affordable pricing
• Providing excellent customer service and customer experiences

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Schrute’s Roots is as follows:

Social Media Marketing

Social media is one of the most cost-effective and practical marketing methods for improving brand visibility. The company will use social media to develop engaging content in terms of various forms and technologies of commercial cultivation and post customer reviews that will increase audience awareness and loyalty.

Website/SEO

Schrute’s Roots will develop a professional website that showcases pictures of the farm and the products we will grow. It will also invest in SEO so that the company’s website will appear at the top of search engine results.

Industry Events

By attending regional farming conferences, association meetings, and symposia, Schrute’s Roots will network with agricultural industry leaders and seek referrals to potential customers.

Direct Mail

The company will use a direct mail campaign to promote its brand and draw customers, as well. The campaign will blanket specific neighborhoods with simple, effective mail advertisements that highlight the credentials and credibility of Schrute’s Roots as a high-quality crop production agriculture business.

Schrute’s Roots’ pricing will be competitive. Pricing will be about 50% lower than retail prices to allow wholesalers and retailers to earn their margins.

Operations Plan

Operation Functions: The following will be the operations plan for Schrute’s Roots.

• Dwight Schrute will be the Owner and President of the company. He will oversee all staff and manage client relations. He will help with the produce cultivation until he has hired a full staff of farmhands. Dwight has spent the past year recruiting the following staff:
• Meredith Grant – will oversee all administrative aspects of running the farm. This will include bookkeeping, tax payments, and payroll of the staff.
• Kevin Baird – Head Farmhand who will oversee the farming staff and day to day operations.
• Oscar Smith– Assistant Farmhand who will assist Kevin.

Milestones:

Schrute’s Roots will have the following milestones completed in the next six months.

• 07/202X Finalize land purchase
• 08/202X Design and build out Schrute’s Roots
• 09/202X Hire and train initial staff
• 10/202X Kickoff of promotional campaign
• 11/202X Launch Schrute’s Roots
• 12/202X Reach break-even

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

Schrute’s Roots’ revenues will come from the sales of root vegetables to its customers and local food establishments.

The major cost drivers for Schrute’s Roots will be labor expenses, land purchase, equipment purchases and maintenance, and marketing plan expenses.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, utilities): $150,000
• Marketing costs: $100,000
• Working capital: $100,000

Key Assumptions

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and pay off the startup business loan.

• Number of customers per month:
• Annual equipment maintenance costs: $20,000

Financial Projections

Income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, agricultural business plan faqs, what is an agricultural business plan.

An agricultural business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your agricultural business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can easily complete your Agricultural business plan using our Agricultural Business Plan Template here .

What are the Main Types of Agricultural Businesses?

There are a number of different kinds of agricultural businesses , some examples include: Animal feed manufacturing, Agrichemical and seed manufacturing, Agricultural engineering, Biofuel manufacturing, and Crop production.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Agricultural Business Plan?

Agricultural businesses are often funded through small business loans. Personal savings, credit card financing and angel investors are also popular forms of funding.

What are the Steps To Start an Agricultural Business?

Starting an agricultural business can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Develop An Agricultural Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed agricultural business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast. 

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your agricultural business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your agricultural business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Agricultural Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your agricultural business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws.

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your agricultural business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms.

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations.

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events.

7. Acquire Necessary Agricultural Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your agricultural business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation.

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your agricultural business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

How to Create an Agricultural Business Plan

Blog > how to create an agricultural business plan, table of content, introduction, executive summary, company description, market analysis, product/service description, marketing and sales strategies, operational plan, swot analysis, financial projections, funding and investment, risk management, sustainability and environmental impact, legal and regulatory compliance, timeline and milestones, our other categories.

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• Pitch Deck Essentials
• Raising Capital
• Startup Guide
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Reading Time : 16 Min

Business plan 101.

Starting an agricultural venture is an exciting and rewarding journey, but it requires careful planning and a well-crafted agricultural business plan. This document serves as a roadmap for your agricultural business, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through each step of creating a robust agricultural business plan to set your venture up for success. Whether you’re planning to start a small family farm or a large-scale agricultural operation, this guide will help you make informed decisions and navigate the challenges of the agricultural industry.

The executive summary is the first section of your agricultural business plan, but it is typically written last. This section provides a concise overview of your entire plan and should capture the reader’s attention. Include the following elements in your executive summary:

• Example: ABC Farms is a sustainable agriculture venture committed to providing organic, locally sourced produce to health-conscious consumers in the region. Our mission is to promote eco-friendly farming practices and support local communities while delivering premium-quality products.

Stellar Business Tips: Keep your executive summary clear, compelling, and focused. Highlight the unique selling points of your agricultural business and how it addresses market demands.

In this section, provide a comprehensive description of your agricultural business. Include the following details:

• Example: ABC Farms was founded in 2010 by John and Jane Smith, who have a combined experience of over 20 years in sustainable agriculture. The business started as a small family farm and has since expanded to a 50-acre organic farm with a diverse range of crops, including vegetables, fruits, and herbs.

Stellar Business Tips: Share your business’s background, founders’ expertise, and growth trajectory. Emphasize your passion for agriculture and commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Conduct a thorough market analysis to gain insights into the agricultural industry, market trends, and potential opportunities. Consider the following factors:

• Example: The organic produce market has been steadily growing at a rate of 10% per year, driven by increasing consumer awareness of health benefits and environmental concerns. Local restaurants and grocery stores are eager to source fresh, organic produce from nearby farms.

Stellar Business Tips: Use data and statistics to support your market analysis. Identify target customers and potential gaps in the market that your agricultural business can address.

Detail the agricultural products or services your business offers. If you are into crop farming, describe the crops you plan to grow, their varieties, and their uses. If you are into livestock rearing, specify the types of animals and breeds you’ll raise. If you offer agricultural services, describe them in detail.

• Example: ABC Farms specializes in heirloom vegetables, such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, renowned for their exceptional flavor and nutritional value. We also raise heritage-breed livestock, including free-range chickens and pasture-raised pigs, to provide ethically sourced meat products.

Stellar Business Tips: Highlight the uniqueness and quality of your agricultural products or services. Emphasize your commitment to sustainability and responsible animal husbandry if applicable.

Outline your marketing and sales strategies to reach and attract your target customers. Consider the following aspects:

• Example: ABC Farms utilizes social media platforms to showcase our farm-to-table journey and engage with customers. We actively participate in farmers’ markets and local food events to promote our brand and build personal connections with consumers.

Stellar Business Tips: Utilize digital marketing tools, such as social media and email marketing, to create brand awareness and engage with customers directly. Explore partnerships with local businesses to expand your reach.

The operational plan outlines how your agricultural business will function on a day-to-day basis. It includes the following details:

• Example: ABC Farms employs a team of experienced farmers who follow sustainable farming practices, including crop rotation and integrated pest management, to ensure soil health and minimize environmental impact. We have invested in modern irrigation systems and machinery to optimize productivity and reduce labor costs.

Stellar Business Tips: Detail the specific practices and technologies you’ll use to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Showcase your commitment to ethical and responsible farm management.

Conduct a SWOT analysis to evaluate your agricultural business’s internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and threats. Use this analysis to make informed decisions and develop effective strategies.

• Example: Strengths: ABC Farms has established a strong reputation for premium-quality produce, garnering repeat customers and positive reviews. Weaknesses: We currently face limited storage facilities for harvested crops, which may affect our ability to meet peak demands.

Stellar Business Tips: Be honest about your agricultural business’s strengths and weaknesses. Address how you plan to capitalize on opportunities and mitigate potential risks.

The financial projections section provides a detailed forecast of your agricultural business’s financial performance over the next 3-5 years. Include the following financial statements:

• Example: Sales Forecast: We anticipate steady growth in sales, with a projected increase of 15% annually due to expanding customer base and diversified product offerings.

Stellar Business Tips: Use realistic and data-driven estimates for your financial projections. Include contingency plans for unforeseen financial challenges.

If your agricultural business requires funding or investment, outline your funding requirements and sources of financing. This section should include:

• Example: Funding Requirements: ABC Farms seeks a capital investment of $200,000 to expand farmland, install greenhouses, and upgrade equipment to meet the growing demand for our organic products.

Stellar Business Tips: Clearly explain how the investment will be used to drive the growth and success of your agricultural business.

Identify potential risks and challenges that your agricultural business may face and develop risk management strategies to mitigate their impact. Consider the following risk categories:

• Example: Market Risks: Fluctuations in commodity prices and changes in consumer preferences may impact our sales revenue. To address this, we will diversify our product offerings and explore new markets.

Stellar Business Tips: Demonstrate your proactive approach to risk management. Provide solutions for handling potential challenges to reassure stakeholders.

As the importance of sustainable farming practices grows, customers and investors increasingly value agricultural businesses that prioritize environmental stewardship and social responsibility. In this section, highlight your commitment to sustainability:

• Example: ABC Farms is committed to regenerative agriculture practices, including cover cropping and no-till farming, to enhance soil health and sequester carbon. We actively participate in local conservation programs to protect natural habitats and biodiversity.

Stellar Business Tips: Showcase your efforts to contribute positively to the environment and local community. Share success stories of how your sustainable practices have made a difference.

The agricultural industry is subject to various laws and regulations, such as agricultural zoning laws, environmental regulations, labor laws, and food safety standards. In this section, address the legal and regulatory aspects of your agricultural business:

• Example: ABC Farms complies with all local, state, and federal regulations for organic certification and food safety. We conduct regular inspections and maintain accurate records to ensure full compliance.

Stellar Business Tips: Emphasize your commitment to adhering to legal requirements and ensuring transparency in your agricultural operations.

Develop a timeline for your agricultural business’s key milestones and achievements. This section should include:

• Example: Milestone Timeline: Year 1 – Acquire additional farmland; Year 2 – Expand greenhouse production; Year 3 – Launch an online farm-to-table store.

Stellar Business Tips: Set realistic timelines for achieving your milestones. This will help you track progress and stay on course.

In conclusion, creating a well-structured and comprehensive agricultural business plan is crucial for your venture’s success. It provides a roadmap to guide your agricultural business towards its goals, while also attracting investors and other stakeholders. Remember that the agricultural industry is dynamic and continually evolving, so your business plan should be flexible enough to adapt to changing market conditions and opportunities.

By following the steps outlined in this guide and incorporating sustainable practices, your agricultural business can thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. At Stellar Business Plans , we are dedicated to supporting the success of agricultural entrepreneurs like you. Our team of experts can assist you in crafting a tailored business plan that aligns with your vision and values. Let’s cultivate growth together and create a sustainable future for agriculture!

Remember, agricultural business success is not only about financial gains but also about nurturing the land, supporting local communities, and providing consumers with nutritious and ethically sourced products. Let your passion for agriculture and dedication to sustainability shine through every aspect of your business. Together, we can sow the seeds of a thriving agricultural future.

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How to Start a Farm: Plan Your Operation

Think about your operation from the ground up and start planning for your business.  A good farm business plan is your roadmap to start-up, profitability, and growth, and provides the foundation for your conversation with USDA about how our programs can complement your operation. 

Keep reading about planning your business below, get an overview of the beginning farmer's journey , or jump to a different section of the farmer's journey.

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Why you need a farm business plan.

A comprehensive business plan is an important first step for any size business, no matter how simple or complex. You should create a strong business plan because it:

• Will help you get organized . It will help you to remember all of the details and make sure you are taking all of the necessary steps.
• Will act as your guide . It will help you to think carefully about why you want to farm or ranch and what you want to achieve in the future. Over time, you can look back at your business plan and determine whether you are achieving your goals.
• Is required to get a loan . In order to get an FSA loan, a guarantee on a loan made by a commercial lender, or a land contract, you need to create a detailed business plan . Lenders look closely at business plans to determine if you can afford to repay the loan.

How USDA Can Help

Whether you need a good get-started guide, have a plan that you would like to verify, or have a plan you’re looking to update for your next growth phase, USDA can help connect you to resources to help your decisions.

Your state's beginning farmer and rancher coordinator  can connect you to local resources in your community to help you establish a successful business plan. Reach out to your state's coordinator for one-on-one technical assistance and guidance. They can also connect you with organizations that specifically serve beginning farmers and ranchers.

It is important to know that no single solution fits everyone, and you should research, seek guidance, and make the best decision for your operation according to your own individual priorities.

Build a Farm Business Plan

There are many different styles of business plans. Some are written documents; others may be a set of worksheets that you complete. No matter what format you choose, several key aspects of your operation are important to consider.

Use the guidelines below to draft your business plan. Answering these kinds of questions in detail will help you create and develop your final business plan. Once you have a business plan for your operation, prepare for your visit to a USDA service center. During your visit, we can help you with the necessary steps to register your business and get access to key USDA programs.

Business History

Are you starting a new farm or ranch, or are you already in business? If you are already in business:

• What products do you produce?
• What is the size of your operation?
• What agricultural production and financial management training or experience do you, your family members, or your business partners have?
• How long have you been in business?

Mission, Vision, and Goals

This is your business. Defining your mission, vision and goals is crucial to the success of your business. These questions will help provide a basis for developing other aspects of your business plan.

• What values are important to you and the operation as a whole?
• What short- and long-term goals do you have for your operation?
• How do you plan to start, expand, or change your operation?
• What plans do you have to make your operation efficient or more profitable ?
• What type of farm or ranch model (conventional, sustainable, organic, or alternative agricultural practices) do you plan to use?

Organization and Management

Starting your own business is no small feat. You will need to determine how your business will be structured and organized, and who will manage (or help manage) your business. You will need to be able to convey this to others who are involved as well.

• What is the legal structure of your business? Will it be a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, trust, limited liability company, or other type of entity?
• What help will you need in operating and managing your farm or ranch?
• What other resources, such as a mentor or community-based organization , do you plan to use?

Marketing is a valuable tool for businesses. It can help your businesses increase brand awareness, engagement and sales. It is important to narrow down your target audience and think about what you are providing that others cannot.

• What are you going to produce ?
• Who is your target consumer ?
• Is there demand for what you are planning to produce?
• What is the cost of production?
• How much will you sell it for and when do you expect to see profit ?
• How will you get your product to consumers ? What are the transportation costs and requirements?
• How will you market your products?
• Do you know the relevant federal, state, and local food safety regulations? What licensing do you need for your operation?

Today there are many types of land, tools, and resources to choose from. You will need to think about what you currently have and what you will need to obtain to achieve your goals.

• What resources do you have or will you need for your business?
• Do you already have access to farmland ? If not, do you plan to lease, rent, or purchase land?
• What equipment do you need?
• Is the equipment and real estate that you own or rent adequate to conduct your operation? If not, how do you plan to address those needs?
• Will you be implementing any conservation practices to sustain your operation?
• What types of workers will you need to operate the farm?
• What additional resources do you need?

Now that you have an idea of what you are going to provide and what you will need to run your operation you will need to consider the finances of your operation.

• How will you finance the business?
• What are your current assets (property or investments you own) and liabilities (debts, loans, or payments you owe)?
• Will the income you generate be sufficient to pay your operating expenses, living expenses, and loan payments?
• What other sources of income are available to supplement your business income?
• What business expenses will you incur?
• What family living expenses do you pay?
• What are some potential risks or challenges you foresee for your operation? How will you manage those risks?
• How will you measure the success of your business?

Farm Business Plan Worksheets

The Farm Business Plan Balance Sheet can help gather information for the financial and operational aspects of your plan.

Form FSA-2037 is a template that gathers information on your assets and liabilities like farm equipment, vehicles and existing loans.

• FSA-2037 - Farm Business Plan - Balance Sheet
• FSA-2037 Instructions

Planning for Conservation and Risk Management

Another key tool is a conservation plan, which determines how you want to improve the health of your land. A conservation plan can help you lay out your plan to address resource needs, costs and schedules.

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) staff are available at your local USDA Service Center to help you develop a conservation plan for your land based on your goals. NRCS staff can also help you explore conservation programs and initiatives, such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) .

Conservation in Agriculture

Crop insurance, whole farm revenue protection and other resources can help you prepare for unforeseen challenges like natural disasters.

Disaster Recovery

Special Considerations

Special considerations for businesses.

There are different types of farm businesses each with their own unique considerations. Determine what applies to your operation.

• Organic Farming  has unique considerations. Learn about organic agriculture , organic certification , and the  Organic Certification Cost Share Program  to see if an organic business is an option for you. NRCS also has resources for organic producers and offers assistance to develop a conservation plan.
• Urban Farming  has special opportunities and restrictions. Learn how USDA can help farmers in urban spaces .
• Value-Added Products . The Agricultural Marketing Resource Center (AgMRC) is a national virtual resource center for value-added agricultural groups.
• Cooperative.  If you are interested in starting a cooperative, USDA’s Rural Development Agency (RD) has helpful resources to help you begin . State-based  Cooperative Development Centers , partially funded by RD, provide technical assistance and education on starting a cooperative.

Special Considerations for Individuals

Historically Underserved Farmers and Ranchers: We offer help for the unique concerns of producers who meet the USDA definition of "historically underserved,"  which includes farmers who are:

• socially disadvantaged
• limited resource
• military veterans

Women: Learn about specific incentives, priorities, and set asides for  women in agriculture within USDA programs.

Heirs' Property Landowners: If you inherited land without a clear title or documented legal ownership, learn how USDA can help Heirs’ Property Landowners gain access to a variety of programs and services

Business Planning

Creating a good business plan takes time and effort. The following are some key resources for planning your business.

• Farm Answers from the University of Minnesota features a library of how-to resources and guidance, a directory of beginning farmer training programs, and other sources of information in agriculture. The library includes business planning guides such as a Guide to Developing a Business Plan for Farms and Rural Businesses and an Example Business Plan .
• The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers information about starting, managing, and transitioning a business.

SCORE is a nonprofit organization with a network of volunteers who have experience in running and managing businesses. The Score Mentorship Program partners with USDA to provide:

• Free, local support and resources, including business planning help, financial guidance, growth strategies.
• Mentorship through one-on-one business coaching -- in-person, online, and by phone.
• Training from subject matter experts with agribusiness experience.
• Online resources and step-by-step outlines for business strategies.
• Learn more about the program through the Score FAQ .

Training Opportunities

Attend field days, workshops, courses, or formal education programs to build necessary skills to ensure you can successfully produce your selected farm products and/or services. Many local and regional agricultural organizations, including USDA and Cooperative Extension, offer training to beginning farmers.

• Cooperative Extension  offices address common issues faced by agricultural producers, and conduct workshops and educational events for the agricultural community.
• extension.org  is an online community for the Cooperative Extension program where you can find publications and ask experts for advice.

Now that you have a basic plan for your farm operation, prepare for your visit to a USDA service center.

2. Visit Your USDA Service Center

How to Start a Farm with USDA

Get an  overview of the beginning farmer's journey  or jump to a specific page below.

Find Your Local Service Center

USDA Service Centers are locations where you can connect with Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, or Rural Development employees for your business needs. Enter your state and county below to find your local service center and agency offices. If this locator does not work in your browser, please visit offices.usda.gov.

Learn more about our Urban Service Centers . Visit the Risk Management Agency website to find a regional or compliance office  or to find an insurance agent near you.

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Did you find what you are looking for.

Agriculture or farming is the only industry consistently performing well, regardless of economic climate changes.

Whether you plan to start farming, cannabis cultivation, a cattle farm, or nursery business, you’ll do great as long as you do things right and have a solid business plan.

This library of farm business plan examples here can inspire and guide you as you begin to plan your business. So, don’t worry; we got you covered on that part.

Let’s learn more about these agriculture business plan samples, starting with their benefits.

Benefits of using an industry-specific business plan example

Believe it or not, using an industry-specific business plan example is the best and probably the quickest way of writing a business plan.

Doubt it? Hold, this may change your perception; an extended list of the benefits of using an industry-specific business plan template.

• Inspiration : Reading a business-specific template can be incredibly helpful in getting content inspiration. Furthermore, it helps you gain insights into how to present your business idea, products, vision, and mission.
• Risk-free method : You are taking a reference from a real-life, let’s say, plant nursery business plan—so you know this plan has worked in the past or uses a method subscribed by experts.
• Deep market understanding : Analyzing and reading such examples can provide clarity and develop a deeper market understanding of complex industry trends and issues you may not know but relate directly to the realities of your business landscape.
• Increased credibility : A business plan developed using an example follows a standard business plan format, wisely presents your business, and provides invaluable insights into your business. There’s no question it establishes you as a credible business owner, demonstrating your deep business and market understanding.
• Realistic financial projections : Financial forecasting being a critical aspect of your plan, this real-life example can help you better understand how they project their financials—ultimately helping you set realistic projections for your business.

These were the benefits; let’s briefly discuss choosing an agriculture or food production plan example that best suits your business niche.

Choosing an Agriculture or Farming Business Plan

This category has business plan templates for various farming or agricultural businesses. With many similar business types and templates, you may not find the most suitable one through manual scrolling.

Here are the steps to consider while choosing the most suitable business plan template.

Identify your business type

Are you planning to start cannabis cultivation? Or thinking of doing organic farming? Thinking of taking care of horses through horse boarding?

Asking yourself these questions will help you identify your business type, which will help in choosing a niche-specific business plan template.

Once you identify your business type, you can choose between templates for different business segments.

Search for the template

We have an in-built search feature, so you can easily search for a business-specific template using your business type as a key term. Once you have the search results, choose the most suitable one. Simple as that.

Review the example

Look closely at the content of the sample business plan you are considering. Analyze its sections and components to identify relevant as well as unnecessary areas.

Since all the Upmetrics templates are tailored to specific business needs, there won’t be many fundamental customizations. However, a hybrid business model targeting multiple customer segments may require adjustments.

For instance, if you plan to start a cannabis cultivation business and also produce and sell CBD, you may need to adjust some of your business plan sections accordingly.

No big deal—you can view and copy sections from other business plan examples or write using AI while customizing a template.

That’s how you find and select the most suitable business plan for your farming business. Still haven’t found the perfect business plan example? Here’s the next step for you.

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Agriculture Business Plan: Step-by-Step Guide to Start Agri-Business

• May 24, 2023
• Business Loan , Finance

Agriculture has long been the foundation of economies all across the world, supplying communities with food, resources, and income. With the agricultural sector employing more than 80% of the world’s labour force, it is obvious that this sector is crucial to the prosperity of any nation’s economy. 

For an entrepreneur, there are numerous opportunities in this sector. Whether you want to start a successful farm business, or you are looking for government assistance in the form of loans and subsidies. In this article, we’ll cover all the topics.

Let’s understand what are different factors to consider in Agriculture business plans.

The Importance of Agriculture in India

• Over 60% to 70% of the Indian population relies on agriculture and related industries.
• Almost 52% of the labour force in the nation is employed in the agriculture industry.
• About 18.3% of India’s GDP (2022-23) (Gross Domestic Product) is attributed to agriculture. ( PIB )
• India’s GDP from agriculture increased to 6934.75 INR billion in the 4th quarter of 2022 from 4297.55 INR billion in the 3rd quarter.
• The Indian agriculture industry is projected to grow by 3.5% during the fiscal year 2022-2023.[ Source ]

Agriculture Business Plan  

A solid plan may make your agriculture business successful. Therefore when writing one, consider all the elements that constitute an excellent agriculture business plan. Also, take inspiration and incorporate key elements from already existing businesses. 

Purpose of Agriculture Business Plan 

• A strong agriculture business plan helps you understand the teams and make key business decisions to accomplish desired goals.
• It also helps you get investors for your business. Investors could be bankers or any other venture capitalists who would be willing to raise funds for your agribusiness. 
• It helps determine if you can get the business going in a set direction and also allows you to estimate the costs required for founding the business.
• A good business plan clearly defines your corporate objectives.

Elements of an Agriculture Business Plan

While creating a strategy for your agriculture business, use a step-by-step procedure and include a comprehensive list of all the necessary components. Of course, your business strategy will determine whether you are a startup or an established firm. In any case, you must ensure that your business plan is inclusive, succinct, detailed, and grounded in reality.

Planning to create an Agriculture Business plan? Here’s what you should include:

1. Purpose and Objectives

The goal of the company is expressed in its objective statement. It dictates why you want to start the business and what you hope to achieve. Also, it identifies the other companies or entities your business will work with.

Thus, your company’s mission statement must incorporate information about your brand and core values.

2. Business Details 

Illustrate every important component of your business, including its location, the size of its property, the date it began operations, its current status, and the sector it operates in. This section could also address other subjects, like marketing and sustainability.

3. Market Analysis

The majority of businesses begin by researching their industry. So, it would be great to implement the same idea in your agricultural business.

You can start by learning about the needs and compiling as much data as possible on supply and demand, market trends, rivals, and customers.

4. SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis is a way to determine your agribusiness’s internal strengths and weaknesses. The outside world may teach you about your possibilities, threats, skills, and shortcomings. For example, new markets, competitors, governmental limits, laws, and current economic conditions could all be opportunities or dangers.

By conducting a SWOT analysis, you can know the strengths and weaknesses of your agribusiness on the inside. Besides strengths and weaknesses, you can also learn about opportunities and threats from the outside. Opportunities and threats could include new markets and competitors, government regulations and restrictions, and prevailing economic conditions.

5. Business Strategy

Create a marketing plan corresponding to your mission statement and goals, the products and services you want to sell. The information you gathered during the research and analysis phases can provide ideas for this.

While creating a marketing plan, be sure to take into account all aspects, including pricing, location, and promotion. Consider how your products or services could help your clientele as well. Customers should be made aware of your product’s benefits. Then and only then will your business thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.

6. Finances

One of the most important sections of any agriculture business plan is the financing portion. You should assess your current financial condition and future prospects.

Depending on your financial status, you can decide whether a business loan is necessary for your agribusiness. Determine your current financial status and the money required to build your agriculture business.

7. Management Summary

The management summary, which comes last in your agricultural business plan, is where you highlight your successes and showcase them to potential investors.

Show them your financial projections and reassure them that investing in your business is a smart move. Doing this can bring in more potential investors for your agricultural business.

Steps to Draft an Agriculture Business Plan

• Step 1: Before getting started you need to first make up your mind about the type of agriculture business you want to start.
• Step 2: Narrow down land and secure the boundaries of it. Make sure you close the lease agreement.
• Step 3: Do deep research on the market to identify the requirements you need to cater to.
• Step 4: Do a calculation of different aspects of your agribusiness. This could include the economic viability of the business, commodities you are going to trade or what role you need to take up in order to tap into future opportunities.
• Step 5: When you are done with the above steps, now is the time to identify the resources you need to for the production.
• Step 6: Register your business
• Step 7: Make a strategy to secure the credit for your business. Unless you have a strong foundation of credit, it is very difficult to kickstart an agribusiness.

Agriculture loans in India

An agribusiness loan is a type of overdraft that can be used for farming and other agriculturally related operations that require working capital. 

Farmers in India can typically apply for low-interest agricultural loans. Repayment conditions for agricultural loans vary from lender to lender. The loan can be repaid in monthly, yearly, or biannual payments.

Uses of Agribusiness loans

• Purchasing agricultural and irrigation machinery
• Buying cattle and livestock
• Purchase of agricultural land
• Storage and warehousing expenses
• Marketing expenses
• Transportation costs
• Managing day-to-day operations

Eligibility Criteria for an Agriculture Business Loan

• The primary applicant must be aged between 18 – 70 years old.
• Applicant should use the loan credit for the cultivation of the farmland.

Documents required to avail of an Agriculture Loan

• ID proof – PAN card/ Aadhar card/ Ration card/ Driving license/ Voter ID
• Address proof – Bank statement/ 3 months utility bill/ Ration card/ Driving license/ Passport
• Land ownership proof.

Let’s see what are the different components of an Agriculture Business Plan.

Closing Words  

It should go without saying that planning your farm business is a major task. But, don’t let it deter you. 

When drafting the plan, your mission statement and goals should come first. After that, go on to strategy creation and market research. You can then describe how you’ll carry out your plan after that. You will market your products to your customers in this manner. You must identify your target customers at this point in your agriculture business strategy. 

Hence, when creating a plan for your farm business, go step by step. And ensure that you don’t miss anything. Just follow the steps mentioned in this article. Happy Farming!

What business can I start with agriculture?

Every business in agriculture holds a key to profits. If you are not sure which business to start with then, here’s a list of businesses you can consider:  1. Organic Farming 2. Organic Fertilizer 3. Poultry Farming 4. Dairy Farming 5. Garlic Farming 6. Lavender Farming 7. Gourmet Mushrooms Farming 8. Flower Business 9. Fertilizer Distribution 10. Mushroom Farming 11. Sunflower Farming 12. Hydroponic Retail Store Business 13. Bamboo Farming 14. Willows Farming

Which agriculture business plan example is most profitable?

When we talk about profitability, Dairy farming has an exceptional potential to become most profitable. Its not just the milk but other products like manure are in high demand.

How to start an agriculture loan application process?

You can start your agriculture loan application process by duly filling out all the details and submitting the application form to the bank while attaching all the necessary documentation. 

What is the online application procedure for agriculture loans?

When applying for a loan online, you must fill out the application form and upload it along with the required documents on the bank’s website.

Who can be categorized as small and marginal farmers?

Any farmer who owns less than 2.5 acres of irrigated land or 5 acres of non-irrigated land falls under the small and marginal farmer category.

Can women avail of agriculture loans in India?

The Indian government encourages women to avail of agriculture loans by offering special schemes for women borrowers.

Who is eligible to apply for an agriculture loan in India?

All categories of farmers, including small and marginal farmers, tenant farmers and sharecroppers, are all eligible to apply for agriculture loans.

How do you write an agricultural business plan?

You just need the follow the below-mentioned steps to make an agricultural business plan

Step 1: Business statement 

Start with a mission statement. The why should be clear. This includes what your business is all about and what it will do. Include the business identity and values.

Step 2. Details of your business

Highlight all important details of your business. Everything right from the location to the date when you’ll start operations.

Step 3: Competition Analysis

Analyse the market. It will help you to strategize better. Gather information about your competitors. Do a SWOT analysis. 

Step 4: Business Strategy

Create a marketing strategy, that aligns with your business statement and values. 

Step 5: Finances

Assess your financial standing and project future. Based on that apply for a loan

Step 6: Management Summary

Highlight your business achievements. 

How do I start my own agricultural startup?

It’s pretty straightforward to start an agricultural startup in India. Follow the below-mentioned steps:

Step 1: Competition Analysis 

Do a proper competition analysis. This will help you to make a good business plan.

Step 2: Arranging the Funds

Consider taking a loan or arrange the funds to kickstart the business.

Step 3: Register your Business

It is the first and foremost step that you should take. Registering your business will help you to take advantage of various government initiatives or schemes.

Step 4: Marketing your Business

Mow market your business. Make a marketing strategy and stick to it. It will reap results for you.

Suggested Reads:

• Best 30+ Business Ideas for Women Entrepreneurs in India
• What is SSI? Small-Scale Industries Explained
• What is Loan Resource App: Benefits, Comparison & How to Apply
• 70+ Best RBI Approved Loan Apps In India [2023]
• Fake loan app list: 500+ apps you should avoid at any cost
• MSME Advantages and Disadvantages: Unlocking the potential of MSMEs in India

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12: Business Plans

What is a business plan.

A business plan is a document that helps you to organize and succinctly summarize the vision you have for your business. The plan contains the operational and financial objectives of a business, the detailed plans and budgets showing how the objectives are to be realized.

A good business plan will contain the following:

• Your business vision, mission statement, key values, and goals
• Description of the product(s) you intend to produce
• Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats the business may experience are described
• Production plans
• Marketing plans
• Estimated start-up costs
• Information on your legal structure and management team
• Current financial statements or projected financial statements.
• Resume or brief explanation of your background and relevant experience
• Less than 10 total pages so that people actually read it

Helpful Publications for Writing a Business Plan

General Business Resource Publications:

• Starting an Ag-Business? A Pre-Planning Guide http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2004/Cornell_AEM_eb0408.pdf
• Business Transfer Guide: Junior Generation http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2016/Cornell-Dyson-eb1605.pdf
• Producing a Business Plan for Value-Added Agriculture http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2007/Cornell_AEM_eb0708.pdf
• Business Planning for the Agriculture Sector: A Guide to Business Plan Development for Start-up to Mid-size Operations http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2010/Cornell_ pdf
• Building a Sustainable Business (Sustainable Agricultural Research Education (SARE)Publications) sare.org/publications/business.htm 280 pages of education and practical exercises to guide you through the financial, management, and interpersonal skills needed to start a successful farm business. Order hard copy for $17 or download PDF online for free.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Publications for Specific Commodities:

• Landscape Business Planning Guide http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2003/Cornell_AEM_eb0313.pdf
• Writing a Business Plan: A Guide for Small Premium Wineries http://publications.dyson.cornell.edu/outreach/extensionpdf/2002/Cornell_AEM_eb0206.pdf
• Writing a Business Plan: An Example for a Small Premium Winery https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/bitstream/122203/2/Cornell_AEM_eb0207.pdf

Getting Help Writing a Business Plan

40+ SAMPLE Agriculture Business Plan in PDF | MS Word

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Step 1: create an executive summary, step 2: set goals and objectives, step 3: make an introduction, step 4: give a mission statement, step 5: state your company history, step 6: make a competitor analysis and create a plan, share this post on your network, file formats, word templates, google docs templates, excel templates, powerpoint templates, google sheets templates, google slides templates, pdf templates, publisher templates, psd templates, indesign templates, illustrator templates, pages templates, keynote templates, numbers templates, outlook templates, you may also like these articles, 5+ sample investment company business plan in pdf.

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The 6 rules to opening a successful farm shop

4th January 2022

Almost on a daily basis we speak to farmers who are considering opening a farm shop. There is a growing demand for high quality, locally and ethically produced food. As well as a need for farmers to diversify their business in order to sustain growth.

Farm shops are ideally positioned to cater for this demand but there are a number of factors that farmers should consider before committing to such a venture. Based on our experience in helping our own farming clients with their business plans, here’s what we believe are the crucial factors to running a successful of a farm shop:

1. Skills and aptitude

The skills and the mind-set needed to run a successful retailing business are very different from those required to run a farm business. Whereas a farmer’s main focus will be on production, those running a farm shop need to be customer focused – it’s not a case of “what can I sell?” but “what (and how) does the customer want to buy?”.

2. Location

Successful farm shop businesses will generally be within five miles of a reasonable sized town and within half a mile of a major road. This means that the shop is readily accessible by a reasonably large population as well as having passing traffic which may or may not live locally. If the proposed location is not easy to get to, what is going to make the customer go out of his or her way to come to your shop rather than to your competitors’?

3. Convenience

In addition to location, it is important that customers are able to shop at the time, and in the way that they want. This may mean extended opening hours or going down the route of internet sales and ‘Click & Collect’. If customers want to pick up the ingredients for an evening meal on their way home from work they will go to a supermarket if the farm shop closes at 5.00pm.

Supporting Wadswick Country Store through retail diversifications, a cafe expansion and the creation of a solar park.

4. your market.

Understand who you will be selling to, what their preferences are, when and how they like to shop, and additional facilities that they would value. Putting in a children’s play area may be counterproductive if your main target market is retired couples looking for a quiet day out.

5. Differentiation

In order to compete with other food retailers you will need a point of differentiation. Usually this will mean concentrating on a core product such as meat or vegetables produced on the farm, and focusing on the areas that you do well such as quality, localness, customer service and the story behind the food that you sell (where it has come from and how it has been produced). Other areas of differentiation might be an idyllic farm location, or creating a destination by adding an attraction such as a children’s play area, farm trails or other retail outlets. These are the areas in which you can compete with supermarkets – not on price.

6. Financial performance

The key determinants of profitability will be the number of customers you can get in through the door and the amount that each spends. Be realistic about this. We have data for a range of farm shop sizes and locations on which we can base the various factors contributing to financial performance such expected customer numbers and spend, and profit margins for different product lines.

Farm shops can be profitable businesses if they are well run and in the right location. If you are considering diversifying your farming business or opening a farm shop speak to one of our financial specialists for farms who will be pleased to discuss your plans with you and provide some useful pointers.

The benefits of working with a financial planner at Old Mill

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[Pdf Sample] Crop Farming Business Plan Docx

In today’s agricultural landscape, having a well-structured business plan is essential for the success of any crop farming venture. A business plan serves as a roadmap, guiding farmers through various stages of planning, implementation, and growth.

[Pdf Sample] Crop Farming Business Plan Proposal Docx

To write a business plan , here is a breakdown of how it should be structured and what should be in each category. After this instruction, I will provide you with a sample of one I wrote for my farm , let us go:

Executive Summary

Business description.

In this section, you’ll delve deeper into the details of your crop farming business . Discuss the type of crops you plan to cultivate, the size of your farm, and any unique selling propositions that differentiate your farm from others. It is crucial to outline your vision, mission, and core values, showcasing your commitment to sustainable and ethical farming practices .

Market Analysis

Read Also:  [Pdf Sample] Poultry Farming Business Plan In South Africa Docx

Products and Services

Marketing strategy.

Read Also:  [Pdf Sample] Farm Business Plan Example Docx

Operational Plan

Management and organization.

Read Also:  [Pdf Sample] Business Plan For Farming In South Africa Docx

Financial Plan

Risk assessment and mitigation.

Here Is a Download Link to the Crop Farming Business Plan Proposal Prepared By Agrolearner.com

Business Model for Agrolearners.com’s Crop Farming Business:

Key partnerships:.

Read Also:  [Pdf Sample] Business Plan For Cattle Farming In South Africa Docx

Key Activities:

Platform Management: Maintain and update the Agrolearners.com website, ensuring a user-friendly experience and smooth access to educational resources.

Value Proposition:

Comprehensive Agricultural Education: Agrolearners.com offers a wide range of resources, including structured courses, webinars, videos, and articles, covering all aspects of crop farming, from beginner to advanced levels.

Community and Networking: Agrolearners.com creates a community of like-minded individuals, allowing learners to connect, share experiences, and collaborate with other aspiring farmers and industry experts.

Customer Segments:

Agricultural Students: Students pursuing agricultural studies who wish to supplement their formal education with practical insights and hands-on experience in crop farming.

Customer Relationships:

Community Engagement: Foster an online community where learners can connect, share experiences, and learn from each other, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Revenue Streams:

Advertising and Partnerships: Collaborate with agricultural suppliers and other relevant businesses to offer targeted advertising opportunities on the Agrolearners.com platform.

Cost Structure:

Technological Infrastructure: Invest in website development, hosting, and maintenance, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Key Resources:

Expertise and Knowledge: Engage agricultural experts and educators to develop content and provide guidance.

Marketing and Analytics Tools: Utilize digital marketing tools, analytics platforms, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems to track performance and optimize marketing efforts.

Is it necessary to create a business plan for a crop farming venture?

How can i assess market demand for specific crops.

Conduct market research, analyze consumer trends, and engage with potential buyers or distributors to understand the demand for your chosen crops.

What financial aspects should I consider in my business plan?

How can i mitigate risks in crop farming, can i modify my business plan as my farm grows.

Yes, your business plan should be a dynamic document that evolves with your farm . Regularly review and update it to reflect changes in the market, technology, or your business goals.

Conclusion:

Share this:, author: adewebs, you may also like:, [pdf sample] business plan for pig farming docx, starting a poultry farm with limited resources in ghana: a comprehensive guide for new farmers, how to register agribusiness company in kenya (see full guide), starting a poultry farm with limited resources in nigeria: guide for new farmers, leave a reply cancel reply.

Using partnerships and corporations to transfer farm assets

• Managing a farm
• Transfer and estate planning
• Utilizing partnerships and corporations to transfer farm assets

Quick facts

• Establishing a business entity, such as a partnership or corporation, can help with the process of transferring a farm business to the next generation.
• In Minnesota, there are two major categories of partnerships: partnerships and limited partnerships. 
• The two corporation entities available to farm businesses are S corporation and C corporation.

Developing any business entity is a complicated process. Seek assistance from a qualified legal expert and accounting assistance if you plan to explore developing a business entity.

Transferring the farm business to the next generation can be a daunting task. However, there are strategies and methods that can help simplify the process.

When operating as a sole proprietorship, it can be challenging to establish a transition plan. There are many individual assets that need to be accounted for such as machinery, equipment, livestock and land. It is difficult and time consuming to transfer separate, individual assets.

One possible solution is to establish a business entity such as a partnership or a corporation to accomplish the business transition. As members and owners of the entity, the parents are issued ownership shares or shares of stock in the entity. These shares can be sold, gifted or passed through an estate to the entering generation, over time, as a method of transferring the business. This does away with the need to transfer separate, individual assets. This also spreads out the parent’s income and thus tax obligations. It allows the entering generation the ability to acquire assets over time thus minimizing their need for large amounts of capital. 

In Minnesota, there are two major categories of partnerships: 1. partnerships and 2. limited partnerships. There are separate entities under each category which function differently.

1. Partnerships

There are two entities: general partnerships and limited liability partnerships.

General partnerships (GP)

Two or more people are required for the GP and are referred to as general partners. All partners are generally liable for all debts and obligations of the GP. There is no liability protection for their personal or partnership assets. Minnesota state law does not require a written partnership agreement. However, such an agreement outlining decision making and job responsibilities might be useful. If the name of the partnership is that of the partners (Henderson Family Partnership), the entity does not have to be registered with the State of Minnesota. The entity is taxed as a partnership, pass-through entity, with income allocated to each partner based on their ownership and included in their personal income tax.

Limited liability partnerships (LLP)

The LLP is similar to the GP with exceptions. All partners are general partners (no limited partners) but their liability exposure is limited to the assets they have placed into the LLP. Their personal assets are protected from liability exposure. The LLP is required to register with the Secretary of State in Minnesota. The LLP is taxed as a partnership, pass-through entity.

2. Limited partnerships

There are three partnership categories: limited partnership (LP), limited liability limited partnership (LLLP), and limited liability company (LLC).

Limited partnership (LP)

Two or more persons are required. There are both general and limited partners. General partners have no liability protection for their business assets but do for their personal assets. The limited partners’ assets in the LP as well as their personal assets have liability protection under the LP. The LP is required to register with the Secretary of State in Minnesota. and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to comply with the Minnesota Corporate Farm Law. The LP is taxed as a partnership, pass-through entity.

Limited liability limited partnership (LLLP)

Two or more people are required. There are both general and limited partners and they have liability protection of both their LLLP assets and their personal assets. The State of Minnesota requires the LLLP be registered with the Secretary of State and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture to comply with the Minnesota Corporate Farm Law. The LLLP is taxed as a partnership, pass-through entity.

Limited liability company (LLC)

Requires only one person as a member of the entity. From a tax standpoint, the LLC can be taxed as a partnership pass-through entity or as an S Corporation. In addition, the LLC can afford tax savings via discounting assets and potential savings of self-employment taxes. The LLC provides liability protection much like that of a corporation.

The LLC has both members and managers. Members elect or appoint a board of directors. The State of Minnesota requires that the LLC register with the Secretary of State and the Minnesota Corporate Farm Law of Agriculture to comply with the Minnesota Corporate Farm Law.

The LLC can offer one additional level of liability protection by being registered in one of what are referred to as “protective states”. Although the list changes occasionally, some of the protective states include: Alaska, Arizona, Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia and Wyoming. These states have written their LLC statutes to include an additional level of liability protection as long as the LLC members abide by all the statute rules. It is legal to register, for example, your Minnesota farm business in one of these protective states and still operate in Minnesota as you have been. You would need a contact in the state where registered. That contact would establish the entity on your behalf and at year end send you a K-1 form for income and you file your tax return just as you do now. This is a complicated process so seek expert legal help if you decide to develop an LLC in one of the protective states.

Registering with Minnesota Department of Agriculture

For the entities that are required to register with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture  for compliance with the Minnesota Corporate Farm Law, this is an annual requirement and there is a $15 fee required to file the documentations. In addition, land held in trust must also register annually with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture for compliance with the Minnesota Corporate Farm Law.

As mentioned, partnerships pay no income taxes. All profit/loss, capital gains and credits are passed through to the partners on a prorated basis, depending upon the percent of ownership. However, the partnership must file a Form 1065 informational tax return, which is due each year by April 15.

Advantages and disadvantages

An advantage over sole proprietorship is that the owners have ownership units or shares. These units or shares can be sold, gifted or passed through an estate as a means of transferring the business over time to the entering generation.

One disadvantage with a partnership, except the LLC, is that the death of a shareholder or willful withdrawal by a partner can seriously disrupt partnership operations. The partnership agreement, if put into place at time of formation of the entity, should clearly describe buy-out provisions or state how the remaining partners are protected, no matter how circumstances change.

Partnership tax laws

Partnership tax laws are similar to individual tax laws. A partnership can generally take over the depreciation schedule of contributed machinery or buildings. A partnership can claim the Section 179 depreciation expense which is passed on pro rata to the partners. Each partner can claim depreciation, which includes his or her portion of the partnership allocation plus any other personal Section 179 depreciation.

Partnership members are self-employed individuals and must pay self-employment tax on their share of earned partnership profits. Partnerships do not receive the favorable tax treatment on fringe benefits (medical, accident and life insurance, housing and meals) as do “C” corporations. However, it generally costs less to form a partnership than a corporation and partnerships can be less formal to operate.

There are two corporation entities available to farm businesses. They are: S corporation and C corporation.

1. S corporation

The S corporation offers a higher level of asset liability protection than a sole proprietorship and some of the partnerships. It must be registered with the Secretary of State in Minnesota. The S corporation is taxed as a pass-through entity with profits allocated to the stock shareholders based upon their ownership percentage. The income then shows up on the shareholders personal income tax. There is no double taxation issue.

Business operating assets can be placed into the S corporation or they can be left out with only the corporate checkbook as part of the corporation operating entity. Placing assets into the corporation is a non-taxable event but getting them out is not. For that reason, it is a general rule of thumb not to place land into the corporation. See your attorney and accountant for advice specific to your situation.

2. C corporation

The C corporation also affords a higher level of asset protection than the sole proprietorship or some of the partnership entities. The C corporation offers longevity to the business because it is technically an entity onto itself with a life of its own. That is, people can enter and leave the C corporation and it continues on without interruption. It also affords many tax advantages regarding deductible expenses.

The C corporation however, can be subject to double taxation. The dividends paid to shareholders are taxed. If the corporation is not growing or acquiring new assets resulting in the corporation retaining earnings, those earnings can be taxed as well. Corporate tax rates are generally higher than other tax rates. Business operating assets can be placed into the C corporation or they can be left out with only the corporate checkbook as part of the corporation operating entity. Placing assets into the corporation is a non-taxable event but getting them out is not. For that reason, it is a general rule of thumb not to place land into the corporation. See your attorney and accountant for advice specific to your situation.

One additional point that applies to both S and C corporations. Shareholders have to maintain an employer-employee relationship with the corporation. If the shareholders maintain personal ownership of what they consider corporate assets, charge corporate business expense against those assets, are audited by the IRS, they may be denied those expense deductions because the assets were owned by the shareholders, not the corporation.

A corporation is established under state law. Each state permits corporations the right to do business. A corporation consists of owners who are called shareholders. The shareholders are the basic decision making group. They elect a board of directors to act for them on most operational decisions. Majority vote governs corporate decisions. Ownership of 51 percent or more of the stock gives you control. Minority shareholders have little if any decision making control unless permitted to do so by the majority shareholders.

Once a corporation is created, it functions much as a self-employed individual might. Corporations must establish their own name and bank accounts. The corporation can become an employer, a lessor or lessee, a buyer or seller, or engage in any other business activity.

Reasons why farms incorporate 

• It is easy to transfer shares. Shareholders can gift, sell or pass through an estate, shares to others as they see fit. A majority shareholder can transfer up to 49 percent of the outstanding shares without losing control of the business.
• A corporation may simplify estate settlement in that it may be easier to value shares than individual farming assets.
• Self-employment (SE) tax can sometimes be reduced with a corporate structure. Instead of paying SE tax on all the Schedule F income as a self-employed individual would, the farmer becomes an employee of the corporation and social security taxes are paid only on wages they receive. See your accountant.
• A portion of meals and lodging furnished to employees of a C corporation are generally deductible to the corporation, but not taxable income to the employee. If lodging is provided on the farm and is a condition of employment, the home’s depreciation, heat, electricity and interest become deductible to the corporation. Remember the employer-employee relationship issue.
• Fringe benefits are deductible by C corporations. Health, accident and up to $50,000 of term life insurance is deductible to the corporation, but not taxable to employees.
• The corporation offers perpetual life, some economic efficiencies regarding capital acquisition, and provides income and social security tax flexibility. It can also provide continuation of a farm business through several generations.

Potential concerns related to the corporation

• Getting into a corporation is generally a tax-free event. Getting out is a taxable event. Don’t start a corporation unless you plan to continue it for many years.
• If the C corporation is profitable but is not growing and acquiring new assets, it can be troubled with retained earnings or excess profits. This can result in a tax obligation.
• Corporations have a different set of rules. Corporate meetings, extra record keeping, corporate income tax returns, reporting requirements, and quarterly tax estimates are part of corporate life. Complying with extra legal and regulatory requirements cost time and money each year.
• Minority shareholders have no power in directing the corporate business and can be easily “frozen out.” A majority shareholder (farming heir) can direct that no dividends be paid. Minority (non-farm heirs), may own shares that generate no income, and hence have no practical value.
• Corporate ownership of a house eliminates the use of the exclusion of gain or a sale of personal residence.
• Corporate ownership sometimes reduces independence and individual pride of ownership.
• It can be very difficult for a retired shareholder to receive any retirement income from an operating corporation. This is especially true if the retiree has no rental property, discontinues working for the corporation, and the corporation pays no dividends.

The farm corporation can be a valuable tool in tax planning and in the transfer process. However, it is a major commitment and a complex task to start a farm corporation. Before starting a corporation, make sure it fits your goals, objectives and business personality.

Self-employment tax on land, buildings and facility rent regarding entities

The US Eight Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that if you are a member of any business entity (such as a partnership or corporation explained above); own land, buildings, or facilities that are outside that entity; and rent those items to the entity; the rental income is exempt for self-employment tax IF the rent is fair and reasonable.

This applies only to those states in the eighth circuit which include Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. With any of these laws, they are subject to change so seek legal advice on this matter.

Discounting business entity assets

An additional strategy that may be useful is the discounting of assets being placed into a business entity, such as any of the partnerships or corporations described earlier.

When you place business assets such as machinery or livestock into the business entity, you can elect to discount those assets. The main reason for discounting assets being placed into the business entity is to reduce the size of an estate in order to get below the federal and perhaps even the state estate applicable exclusion amounts. Doing so will reduce or eliminate any estate tax.

Justification for the discount is based upon lack of marketability of the assets due to a fractional ownership interest.

One disadvantage of discounting is that you have artificially lowered the basis of the assets in the entity. This can be a problem if the entity is discontinued and the assets are sold as a result. This could result in a tax obligation. If the assets are replaced due to use, this is not an issue.

Assets being discounted and placed into an entity should be appraised. If, at a future date, the entity is audited by the IRS, you can document the value of the assets placed into the entity. For machinery and equipment, simply take the depreciation schedule to the local implement or equipment dealer and ask them to put a value on all machinery. Have them put the values in writing on their dealership letterhead along with a signature and date. For livestock you can take a list to a livestock auction facility or someone who deals in livestock and would have a grasp of the values. The values should be put in writing and listed on their letterhead with a signature and date. For land, seek the help of a realtor who deals with ag land. Simply have them do an estimate or appraisal of the land, put it in writing on their letterhead, with a signature and date.

Note:  In late 2016, the Internal Revenue Service and the US Treasury Department enacted 2704 rules which drastically changed discounting rules and during which situations they may apply. If assets are transferred and then sold, discounting will definitely not apply.  If you are contemplating discounting any assets seek legal and accounting assistance to make sure you are in compliance with 2704 rules.

Business entities and maintaining homestead classification

When using a business entity for ag land ownership, caution must be used in order to maintain eligibility for the Minnesota Qualified Small Business Property Qualified Farm Business Property estate exclusion. In addition, utilizing limited liability companies (LLCs) as a business entity have new rules to comply with due to passage of the Minnesota Revised Uniform Limited Liability Company Act of 2015. The law states the land-owning LLC and its members must be the ones farming the land on behalf of the owner LLC. If the owner LLC rents the land to someone else, even another member of the LLC who then farms it personally, homestead classification is lost and therefore the qualified farm property estate exclusion is also lost. New LLCs must have complied with the new law as of August 1, 2015. Existing LLCs must have complied with the new law by January 1, 2018.

Ag land held in any trust, except a revocable living trust, as well as land in limited partnerships, limited liability limited partnerships, S and C corporations and LLCs must file documentation with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture under the Minnesota Corporate Farm Law in order to be eligible for the qualified farm property exclusion. The application must be done annually and there is a filing fee of $15 per application.

For more details on the Minnesota Homestead Classification requirements see maintaining farm land homestead classification and qualification . This is a complex area and there is a lot at stake regarding the qualified farm property estate exclusion so seek legal advice specific to your situation when establishing any entity that owns ag land.

Farm Service Agency (FSA) payments and business entities

Under the current farm bill, there are some restrictions regarding commodity program payments made to individuals versus entities. Entities that limit member’s liability exposure (all entities except the general partnership) are limited to one maximum payment limit regarding FSA commodity program payments.

This is a complicated issue. If you have any questions or concerns related to your situation, check with your FSA office for details of the program.

Caution: This publication is offered as educational information. It does not offer legal advice. If you have questions on this information, contact an attorney.

Gary Hachfeld, former Extension educator; David Bau, Extension educator and C. Robert Holcomb, Extension educator

Reviewed in 2017

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Agri department reviews African swine fever plan

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is reviewing a nationwide plan to curb the spread of African swine fever (ASF) by enhancing the guidelines on transporting pork and its by-products nationwide.

The DA issued Special Order No. 615 to form a technical committee to review the national zoning and movement plan that outlines the requirements for the movement of swine and related commodities in different zones.

Among other concerns, the panel will discuss and study the proposed approaches or strategies to strengthen safe and efficient movement of live pigs and pork as well as pork products and by-products.

The panel is tasked to review the current implementation of DA’s Administrative Order (AO) No. 2, which prescribes certain measures to transport swine commodities.

Further, the committee will craft guidelines and protocols relative to amendments on the zoning and movement plan, subject to the Agriculture Secretary’s approval.

Promulgated in 2022, the AO amended a previous directive that classified each town or city based on risk of disease transmission and its proximity to ASF-affected areas.

“High risk” areas are those with an extreme likelihood for disease introduction, transmission and spread of ASF due to the presence of presumed risk factors.

“Moderate risk” areas refer to those with a potential likelihood for disease introduction and transmission but no risk mitigation measures are in place.

Meanwhile, “low risk” areas pertain to those with less likelihood for disease introduction because of a robust surveillance system in place.

The order has different colored zones —a red (or infected) zone will include towns or cities with confirmed outbreaks or cases. It noted that areas in the red zone may reach or expand across the boundary of the adjacent city or municipality.

A pink (buffer) zone is a town or city where ASF is not detected but demarcated immediately around the red zone when local authorities confirm that this particular area has been infected. The DA considers the National Capital Region as a pink zone.

Places where the animal disease is not detected but close to areas in the pink zone are placed under the yellow (surveillance) zone. They are considered high risk areas.

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A light green (protected) zone is an area where ASF is not detected. It is considered to be a moderate risk area. —Jordeene B. Lagare 

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Managed Pollinator Protection Plan

The importance and value of pollinators.

Pollinators, such as honey bees, native bees, other insects, and mammals, are vital to the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts in the United States. Honeybee pollination alone adds more than $15 billion in value to the country's crops. Worldwide, pollinators contribute to the production of more than 35% of the world's crops. Pollinators play a key part of agriculture and food systems sustainability in the United States and contribute greatly to the economy of the country's agricultural sector. A strong pollinator community overall helps ensure a better environment.

The Decline of Pollinators and Its Causes in the United States

U.S. beekeepers began reporting widespread losses of the honey bee ( Apis mellifera ) in 2006. The Bee Informed Partnership (BIP), a collaboration group consisting of researchers and universities from all across the country, started monitoring yearly colony losses beginning in 2006. According to their results, total colony losses have been higher than the acceptable every year since 2006. In 2012, the United States Department of Agriculture issued its Report on the National Stakeholders Conference on Honey Bee Health . The report identified multiple stressors that contribute to pollinator loss, including parasites and pathogens, poor nutrition due to the loss of forage lands, and exposure to pesticides.

Communication Strategies for Reducing Pesticide Risk for Managed Pollinators in Michigan

As part of the national strategy to reduce the losses of honey bees and other pollinators, Michigan has developed a managed pollinator protection (MP3), Communication Strategies for Reducing Pesticide Risk for Managed Pollinators in Michigan . It's designed to improve and protect the health of pollinators in Michigan by mitigating the risk of pesticide exposure, while recognizing that pesticides are important tools for crop, property, and human health protection.

In February 2016, Michigan began developing its MP3 by bringing together a diverse group of commodity partners and stakeholders .

In August-October 2016, beekeepers, beekeeping organizations, growers, private and commercial pesticide applicators, pesticide registrants, Michigan State University (including Extension), United States Department of Agriculture, and others attended listening sessions. They heard about and discussed pesticides and risks to managed pollinators, communication between beekeepers and applicators, pollinator habitat, education, regulation and management, recommendations to include in the MP3, and areas for possible research.

Listening session attendees were asked to provide their input on development of Michigan's MP3.  In addition to the seven listening sessions, targeted regional meetings, online communication/social media, and newsletters provided a variety of opportunities to for provide input.

Communication Strategies for Reducing Pesticide Risk for Managed Pollinators in Michigan is a non-regulatory document that provides guidance and flexibility to growers, pesticide users, beekeepers, and other stakeholders.

Michigan's MP3 will be tailored to fit conditions in our state that affect pollinators and will encourage best management practices that apply to our beekeepers, growers, and pesticide applicators. There will be periodic reviews of the MP3's efficacy and an outlet to amend it as necessary.

If you have questions about Michigan's MP3, Communication Strategies for Reducing Pesticide Risk for Managed Pollinators in Michigan , please contact us .

What's Next?

Our next steps are to partner with key stakeholders to:

• Develop Best Management Practices for specific crops or crop-groups or treatment types that will inform pesticide users and beekeepers about reducing risk to managed pollinators.
• Follow a 10-point action plan to provide outreach and education about reducing pesticide risk to managed pollinators, as listed in Michigan's MP3.

Managed Pollinator Protection Plan Updates

Addressing the Decline of Pollinators

National strategy to promote the health of honey bees and other pollinators.

The Pollinator Health Task Force identified three primary goals for federal departments and agencies, in collaboration with public and private partners:

• Reduce honey bee colony losses during winter (overwintering mortality) to no more that 15% within 10 years.
• Increase the Eastern population of the monarch butterfly to 225 million butterflies occurring in an area of approximately 15 acres in its overwintering grounds in Mexico through domestic/international actions and public-private partnerships by 2020.
• Restore or enhance 7 million acres of land for pollinators over the next five years through federal actions and public-private partnerships.

EPA's Role in the National Strategy: Risk Management Measures

In addition to its development and implementation of toxicity testing guidelines for honey bees; reevaluation of the risk, and development of a new use policies for, certain neonicotinoid pesticides; and conducting risk assessments on new active ingredients and on selected registered active ingredients; EPA will implement these risk management measures:

• Work with state and tribal partners to develop MP3s aimed at mitigating pesticide exposure.
• Improve pesticide labeling and restriction of pesticides that are acutely toxic to bees when applied to foliage.
• Reduce the exposure of bees to pesticide dusts generated during the planting of pesticide-treated seed.
• Expedite review of new Varroa mite control pesticides.
• Encourage and enhance pollinator protection and habitat activities.
• Evaluate and mitigate pesticide impacts on monarch butterflies.

Michigan's Role in the National Strategy

Michigan followed the Final Guidance for the Development and Implementation of Managed Pollinator Protection Plans as the foundation for developing its MP3, Communication Strategies for Reducing Pesticide Risk for Managed Pollinators in Michigan . The guidance identifies critical and recommended elements:

• Direct discussion between beekeepers, growers, pesticide applicators, and other stakeholders.
• Input from a representative cross-section of stakeholders as a plan is developed and before it is finalized.
• Means for growers or pesticide applicators to know if there are managed pollinators within certain distances of application sites and provide timely contact to the beekeeper prior to an application.
• Mitigating risks while managing pests.
• Using a variety of best management practices.
• A clear, defined plan for public outreach to stakeholders and the general public.
• Mechanisms to measure the efficacy and effectiveness of the Managed Pollinator Protection Plan to reduce exposure to bees through enhanced communication and collaboration among stakeholders.
• Periodic reviews no longer than three years apart with amendments submitted to EPA for acceptance.

Other Pollinator Protection Resources

Key federal and state agency documents.

• 2012: The United States Department of Agriculture issues Report on the National Stakeholders Conference on Honey Bee Health . The report identified multiple stressors that contribute to pollinator loss, including parasites and pathogens, poor nutrition due to the loss of forage lands, and exposure to pesticides.
• 2013: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) partners with Canada and California to develop a framework for quantifying the risk of pesticide exposure to bees.
• 2013: EPA develops new label language for certain neonicotinoid pesticides identified as particularly hazardous to bees.
• 2013: EPA announces its intention to amend the labels of pesticides that are applied to foliage and which are acutely toxic to bees upon contact.
• 2014: President Obama issues the Presidential Memorandum - Creating a Federal Strategy to Promote the Health of Honey Bees and Other Pollinators. The memorandum recognized the serious, ongoing loss of honey bees and other pollinators and its potential impact on food production systems, agriculture, and the environment. It establishes the Pollinator Health Task Force, with the directive to develop a national pollinator health strategy to increase and improve pollinator habitat.
• 2015: EPA proposes to ban the use of pesticides, including neonicotinoids, when crops are in bloom and bees are under contract for pollination services.
• 2015: The State FIFRA Issues Research and Evaluation Group provides its Final Guidance for the Development and Implementation of Managed Pollinator Protection Plans to states and tribes for use in developing successful plans.
• 2016: EPA releases the first of four reports on neonicotinoid pesticides potentially harmful to pollinators; the first report assesses imidacloprid, and the next reports (to be released for public comment in December 2016) will assess clothianidin, thiamethoxam, and dinotefuran.

Pesticide Risk Communication Tools

Other pollinator links of interest.

MSU Extension - Gardening in Michigan - Pollinators & Pollination

Michigan Pollinator Initiative

Managed Pollinator Protection Plan (MP3) Resources