Ag Business Boot Camp
Helping Arizona Farmers Thrive
Are you ready to take your farm to the next level? The Arizona Ag Business Boot Camp is here to help small and mid-size farmers in Arizona build the skills, confidence, and tools to succeed in the business of farming. Whether you’re just getting started or have been farming for years, this 8-week hybrid program is designed to meet you where you are and help you grow.
Upcoming Cohorts
Southern Arizona (Tucson) — July 13, 2026 - August 31, 2026 (Summer)
Northern Arizona (Camp Verde) — Dates to be Announced (Winter 2026/2027)
Central Arizona (Phoenix) — Dates to be Announced (Spring 2027)
What You’ll Gain
Through a mix of peer-to-peer learning, webinars, 1-on-1 tailored support, and hands-on workshops, you’ll:
Develop a strong business plan and clear goals.
Explore opportunities to fund your farm and grow your operation.
Learn how to expand your markets and how to connect with diverse buyers.
Get guidance on food safety certifications and value-added products.
Discover impactful marketing strategies to share your farm’s story.
Plus, you’ll have opportunities to tour successful farms and facilities and connect with a supportive community of fellow Arizona farmers.
Participants will receive a certificate of completion at graduation.
Southern Summer Cohort Program Details
Dates: July 13, 2026 - August 31, 2026
Schedule: Mondays, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
In-person: Tucson (4 sessions)
Online: Zoom (4 sessions)
Special onsite tours: Located in or near Tucson
Enrollment capped at 15 participants.
Cost: Enrollment is currently covered by Local First Arizona. Subject to change.
Read More About the Curriculum
Funding
Grant Opportunities Airtable resource
Food Safety and Certifications
Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) blog
Value-added Products and Commercial Kitchens
Need a Commercial Kitchen? Here’s Where to Find Them & How to Create Your Own blog
How Value-Added Products Beef Up Revenues for Arizona Grass Raised Beef Company blog
Business Planning
Aggregation, Processing and Distribution
Distribution Channels resource
Localizing the Invisible Middle blog
How Little Colorado Meats is Bringing Back Local Meat Processing blog
Selling to Diverse Markets
Accepting SNAP and WIC resource
Getting into Retail/Wholesale Channels resource
The Power of Institutional Food Procurement blog
Getting Local Food into Arizona Hospitals blog
Getting Local Food into Arizona Schools blog