For Immediate Release
LINCOLN, Ill. - University of Illinois Extension is proud to announce the launch of the Farm Business Foundations series, designed to support individuals who are starting new farm operations or taking over family farms. This three-session program provides essential knowledge and practical skills to help new and transitioning farmers succeed in their endeavors.
The series will cover key topics such as business planning, financial management, record keeping, marketing strategies, risk management and succession planning. Participants will gain valuable insights from industry experts and connect with local resources to build a strong foundation for their farm's future.
Sessions locations are still to be determined, and will be held on Tuesday evenings, 5:30-7 p.m.
- June 10: Introduction to Farm Business Management and Financial Basics
- June 17: Financial Management, Record Keeping, and Marketing Strategies
- June 24: Risk Management and Succession Planning
Reagen Tibbs, commercial agriculture educator serving Logan, Menard, and Sangamon counties, emphasizes the importance of this series for new farmers: "Starting a farm or taking over a family operation can be challenging. Our Farm Business Foundations series is designed to equip new farmers with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate these challenges successfully. By providing comprehensive education and connecting them with local resources, we aim to empower the next generation of farmers and strengthen our agricultural community."
Illinois Extension is committed to supporting the agricultural community through educational programs and resources. This series is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that farmers have access to the information and support they need to thrive. This program is conducted in partnership with the Menard County Farm Bureau, the Sangamon County Farm Bureau, and Farm Credit Illinois.
For more information about the Farm Business Foundations series or to register, please visit go.illinois.edu/2025FarmBusinessFoundations or contact Reagen Tibbs by emailing rgtibbs@illinois.edu or calling the Logan County Extension Office at (217) 732-8289.
Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, please contact the event coordinator. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your needs.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.