It’s been proven that urban agriculture can support the well-being of individuals and communities in multiple ways: developing local food systems, contributing to food security, promoting economic development, strengthening social integration, and improving urban biodiversity and environmental health. Experienced farmers are the key to building long-lasting, resilient local and regional food systems, yet many are aging or retiring.
Our vision is to create a more just and equitable food system by eliminating barriers for new, beginning, and underrepresented farmers by providing them with the resources to build sustainable and prosperous urban farms.
The Grow Getter’s Program brings to life our vision by offering needed resources for aspiring urban farmers. This year-long program will provide on-hand farm job training, mentoring, and other business development assistance to new, beginning, and underrepresented farmers.
Timing
The application period closes May 1, 2021, and applicants will be notified of acceptance in May. Depending on the applications received, we may contact you for an interview during the evaluation period. Interviews will be conducted as applications are received.
Location
The program will be located on the Near Eastside of Indianapolis at 727 N Oriental Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202.
Eligible Requirements
Eligible applicants must be 18 years or older and have at least one year of continuing education or work experience post-high school. To be accepted, a candidate must be able to commit to the weekly schedule (15-20 hours) for the entire year program, be willing to work hard, have a sincere interest in the subject matter and activities, desire to take on leadership roles, and grow personally. The 15-20 hours will be broken into onsite training, field trips, virtual learning, and self-paced activities.
If you can’t commit to a full year, you can select a specific term below.
Projected Program Schedule
During this time frame, we will present various topics but not limited to the following.
Summer Term: June 7-August 29, 2021
Managing a CSA, farmer stand, and online store
Developing and pursuing a vision
Fall Term: September 6- November 21, 2021
Site design
Crop planning
Winter Term: January 3- March 5, 2022
Produce safety certification class
Funding and Utilizing Technology to Expand your Business
Spring Term: March 14-May 29, 2022
Nursery management
Preparing beds for planting and soil health maintenance
Please note: There will be breaks in the schedule during the holiday season.
This program is made possible by
