What is a Farmstart?

Participants in the Farmstart will have support and guidance for their new agricultural businesses with access to land, infrastructure, advice, training and mentorship provided through the programme. Ffynnon also plans to assist participants by marketing and selling of produce through collaborating with other local groups on the creation of a regional food network. 

World events in the 2020’s have really highlighted the importance of a secure food supply and the consumer driven market is increasingly demanding low carbon, high quality food that doesn’t cost the earth. Connecting producers to markets provides high quality seasonal produce while ensuring a resilient sustainable food system, which pays producers fairly for their work. Traditional mixed farms have fallen out of favour, historically losing out to competition with cheaper products brought in from further afield. 

Currently we are living through a farming crisis, climate crisis and crisis in world supply chains, the need for resilient local supply chains has never been clearer. Post covid land costs are pushing an already inaccessible resource further out of reach for those who want to make their way in the agricultural sector. 

By securing land in community ownership, Ffynnon is able to ensure access to land for new entrant farmers in perpetuity. Connecting to a food network means each producer isn’t having to run marketing, selling and transport logistics on top of starting their farm enterprise. Two new buildings will be built on the Clynfyw site to provide barn space, storage and a processing facility for the Farmstart businesses.

---

Feedback from Farmstarter’s:-

“Support from the Farmstart team has been vital in developing the confidence to start a farming business.” Cara, Farmstarter

“I’ve been on a mission since before Lockdown to get into sustainable agriculture.  After many failed attempts, barriers and hurdles, this may just be our chance.” Kevin, Farmstarter