Business Support

New England Ag Exchange
Welcome! This is your online forum for connecting about farming + land + jobs + other agricultural stuff.

Section 1 – General Resource References
Section 2 – Natural and Cultural Resources Information
Section 3 – Resource Concerns and Planning Criteria
Section 4 – Practice Standards and Supporting Documents
Section 5 – Conservation Effects

RI Farmland Access Clearinghouse
The Division of Agriculture and our partners have identified improving access to farmland as a major priority. Farmland values in Rhode Island are among the highest in the country and lack of access to affordable farmland threatens RI’s agricultural sector. Listed below are ways to access farmland around the state. If you are looking to sell the development rights to your farmland, please visit the state Farmland Preservation Program page here.

Want to dial in the business side of your farm?
These free resources will help you get as good at running your business as you are at growing food. Many thanks to the farm service providers around the country who prepared these resources or helped us create them.

FOOD BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE
This resource is intended to be a one-stop-shop for food related businesses to find technical assistance, grant funding, or financing.

Climate Change Resources for Business
Businesses across Rhode Island are taking steps to address climate change, implement sound resilience practices, and remain competitive and profitable. Planning and preparing for extreme climate events can also save lives and keep Rhode Islanders working.

This report includes funding opportunities available in the eight states served by Farm Credit East: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. Programs are divided into broad categories according to their main focus: beginning farmers, conservation, environment and forestry; energy; fisheries and aquaculture; organic; rural business development; and research, education and promotion.

STARTING A FARMERS MARKET IN RI

Successful markets have deep community roots and offer a thriving marketplace for farmers and eaters. There are many details to consider before starting a new farmers market. Below you will find resources to guide you through the planning process.

The following information on starting a new farmers market is brought to you in partnership between Farm Fresh RI and the USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program

Southside Community Land Trust (SCLT) serves people in economically challenged urban neighborhoods where fresh produce is scarce and who, as a result, are at risk for life-threatening, diet-related, chronic diseases.