Incubator Farm Program launching 2025
What is an ‘incubator farm?’
An incubator farm is a training program designed to minimize key entry barriers to aspiring farmers. Typically, plots are leased to farmers for a specified period of time for an extremely low rate. The goal is for farmers who graduate from the program to leave with the skills and resources necessary to acquire their own land and formally launch their business.
Shepherd University’s agricultural small business incubator will help new farmers overcome barriers, empowering them to successfully establish their own sustainable agricultural businesses and contribute to West Virginia’s economy.
What to Expect
- Access to low-cost designated growing plots
- Protected with deer fencing
- Access to irrigation
- Actively maintained through no-till cover-cropping methods
- Training in specialty crop production techniques
- Access to a variety of agricultural workshops hosted by the Innovation Center
- Support and guidance from a designated program coordinator
- Hands-on mentorship at the Tabler Farm demonstration plot
- Access to tools, equipment, and resources
- Mid-sized tractor with an array of implements available
- A selection of specialized tools for small-scale vegetable production
- Bulk ordering for cost-share opportunities
- Education and aid in developing business and marketing plans
- Support and guidance from a designated program coordinator
- Access to university resources such as faculty and other experts in business and marketing
- And more! Other program details will be announced soon.
Applications coming soon!
For more information, please email the program director, Dr. Brooke Comer, at bcomer@shepherd.edu