Development Programme for Young Agricultural and Food Producers

Development Programme for Young Agricultural and Food Producers

A development programme for young people up to 40 years old who are starting agricultural activities and/or food production for the first time.

The programme runs from May to October 2025 and includes trainings, study days, and a study trip.

Application deadline for the programme: 31 March 2025.

What benefits will you gain from the programme?

Entrepreneurial knowledge and practical tips from well-known entrepreneurs

Support from a personal mentor in developing your business plan and starting your company

New, inspiring ideas and the expansion of your support network

We welcome to the programme:

young people up to 40 years old who are starting agricultural activities and/or food production for the first time and who have:

  • preferably knowledge of entrepreneurship and education in a relevant field (agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture, food production);

  • preferably at least one year of work experience in a relevant field (agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture, food production);

  • a realistic business idea and an initial business plan in the field of agriculture, animal husbandry, horticulture, or food production;

  • time to commit to the programme and to establishing their enterprise;

  • a willingness to share ideas and collaborate with others;

  • an open mind and a view of innovation as an opportunity for development.

  • Introduction to the programme and how to start a business, followed by independent work: improving the business plan – setting business goals, analysing the business environment, SWOT analysis.
  • Production planning, followed by independent work: improving the business plan – description of the production process and output.
  • Marketing and sales, followed by independent work: improving the business plan – marketing plan, description of sales channels.
  • Financial literacy and strategies in agriculture, followed by independent work: improving the business plan – financial projections.
  • Sustainable agriculture

The incubation programme runs from October 2025 to October 2026. Each participant will be assigned a personal mentor for 12 months, who will provide guidance based on their own knowledge and practical experience. Participants will receive advice and contacts to help turn their business idea into a concrete and realistic business plan, secure funding, and implement the plan.

Mentors for the programme will be selected based on the participants’ profiles.
Mentor support: 25 hours per participant.

During the interim seminars held throughout the programme, participants provide feedback on the work they have completed, and solutions are found to any questions that have arisen. The interim seminars take place virtually.

Participants have the opportunity to take part in various AKIS programme–themed information and study days organised by METK and its partners.

Participants have the opportunity to take part in meetings and visits to research institutions and organisations (for example, METK, PRIA, PTA, MES, EPJ, EPKK, EMÜ, Polli Horticultural Research Centre, Tartu Science Park, etc.).

At the final seminar, participants present an overview of their results, provide feedback on what they have learned, and share their plans for the future. Participants of the development programme will also be recognised. Media outlets will be invited to the final seminar to help introduce the young entrepreneurs to a wider audience.

EN Co-funded by the EU

Contact:

Leho Leis

Leho Leis

Head of Unit

Unit of Training and Advisory Service

Additional information: