FRESH Start Land Enterprise Centre is offering would be farming entrepreneurs an opportunity to attend an agricultural business academy based at Kirkley Hall Campus, Northumberland College, Ponteland, starting on Thursday, November 16.

The programme includes 11 sessions aimed at anyone wishing to establish their own agri business or seeking to expand existing business skills.

Each session has an industry expert and leader who will share their knowledge, experience and success, while highlighting any potential concerns in running a successful agri business. The business academy is complemented by a farm visit with live case studies providing on the ground practical experience.

Fresh Start Academy is designed to support and develop the next generation of farmers, land managers and land-based businesses according to co-ordinator Graham Bulmer.

He said: “The programme is designed to help participants develop a strong innovative business approach, focusing on business planning, structures, finance, marketing and communication skills for the sector.

“The Academy is run over seven evening sessions and two days. Attendees must be 18 or over and aiming to be involved in establishing or developing their own business.

“The Academy is supported by a range of ‘blue-chip’ industry stakeholders that help by providing a wealth of local knowledge and expertise.”

The Fresh Start Academy is limited to 20 places only and early applications are invited.

Anyone in the region interested in attending the agri business academy should contact Graham Bulmer on 07734 079 459 or email graham@freshstartlandenterprise.org.uk.