The University of Minnesota is leading a multi-year, multi-state organic benchmarking effort in partnership with Minnesota State Farm Business Management (FBM) program to collect and analyze organic financial data. Through this multi-state effort, organic farmers in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota can receive a 25-50% cost-share for farm business management participation. Funding for this benchmarking effort is provided through the USDA-Organic Research and Extension Initiative Program (2019-51300-30484) for 2019-2022.
Organic Benchmarking
The organic benchmarking cost share program creates the opportunity for certified organic producers to participate in FBM at a reduced tuition rate for up to 3 years (2019-2022).
Organic producers are eligible if they are an organic dairy farm, raise organic livestock or
produce any of the following organic crops:
- Alfalfa
- Corn (for grain)
- Corn silage
- Hay/Haylage
- Soybeans
- Wheat
- Specialty Crops (fruits and vegetables)
Farmers enrolled in an FBM program reap a number of benefits, including:
- Work one-one-one with a financial expert to enhance management and financial capacity on your organic farm
- Individualized organic benchmarking reports for your farm
- Improved communication with lenders and other agricultural professionals that support your operation
- 50% cost-share for new FBM farms and 25% cost-share for existing FBM farms
Organic data submitted to FINBIN will be used in an aggregate form to provide regional benchmark reports and build Extension programming and curriculum regarding the financial stability of organic production. A minimum number of 30 farms are needed for an aggregate benchmark to be generated and reported.
How to Apply For FBM Scholarships
Be sure to fill out the online application. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and all farmers and FBM instructors will be notified of application status no later than 15th of the month following the application submission.
To learn more about the FBM program contact:
- Cory Detloff in Minnesota
- Brad Sirianni in Wisconsin
- Jason Fewell in North Dakota
For questions about the Organic FBM Tuition Scholarship Program contact:
- Gigi DiGiacomo or at (612) 710-1188
For questions about USDA-OREI Grant (2019-51300-30484) contact:
- Joleen Hadrich
- Pauline Van Nurden or at (612) 710-1188
Links, Resources and Information
Help for your organic transition video
Center for Farm Financial Management
Minnesota Dept of Ag organic information
