PROGRAMS TO ENCOURAGE SMALL FARMERS TO CONSIDER ENTREPRENEURIAL OPTIONS

Abstract

Small farms constitute the majority of farms in both the EU and in the USA.   Economic challenges in rural areas have led to many changes in agricultural policies for small farmers.  Both the EU and the USA have recently made changes that affect small farms and their ability to be more entrepreneurial.  To become larger operations with a more value-added product mix, they need government support and the resources of farm advisory services to implement new management strategies and evaluate production and marketing alternatives.  An Extension program for small farmers that has been operating for over 25 years in the United State demonstrates that these types of educational opportunities are in  high demand by small farmers.