AgForce Development Program

At EDGE, we believe that agriculture is central to rebuilding the Appalachian economy. At the heart of the DRT Environment is the AgForce Development Program, a unique initiative focused on creating sustainable economic opportunities through agriculture. This program equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and technical assistance they need to start agricultural small businesses. Small businesses in the DRT environment are identified by EDGE as key economic drivers, critical to rebuilding the community.

Through hands-on training, participants learn the ins and outs of food production, business development, and entrepreneurship. Whether it’s starting a farm, launching a food processing business, or entering local markets, the AgForce Development Program offers:

Technical Assistance: Expert guidance on agricultural best practices, sustainable production methods, and land management.
Business Development Training: Comprehensive support in business planning, market access, and financial management, ensuring participants can turn their skills into successful enterprises.
Workforce Development: Practical experience in food production and agribusiness, building a skilled workforce ready to lead in the region’s agricultural resurgence.

EDGE also provides technical assistance and business development to producers as a partner in the Appalachian Regional Food Business Center program with USDA.

SMART CLIMATE PRACTICES

Land Based Curriculum

With an emphasis on smart climate practices, our AgForce program gives hands-on training in high value produce suited to our unique topography and climate. Cohort trainees receive training specific to our mountainous terrain, such as goat production, mountain range poultry production, fruit tree production, forest medicinal production, honey production, and maple syrup production. To pair with agricultural practices, cohort members also receive conservation training centered on practices like soil enhancement and erosion control.

The AgForce Development Program is the first crucial step to establishing food sovereignty. By creating strong economic infrastructure for local control over food production and distribution, we can ensure food security within the region. Building a resilient agricultural workforce contributes to the overall resilience of the community, making it better able to withstand economic and environmental challenges.

AgForce Development Program

Land Based Curriculum

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