If you are starting a new farm in Calvert County, there is a wealth of information available to assist you. Collectively this information will help with steps involved to get your farm up and running.
Starting a new business is an exciting and challenging undertaking and it is important that you familiarize yourself with the basic requirements for starting a business in Calvert County. The Department of Economic Development (DED) can help you navigate the zoning and permit process, find relevant courses and direct you to agricultural agencies that can assist you. No matter what you need, DED is available to assist you. Please contact DED at 410-535-4583 or email us.
The office is staffed with certified, professional business counselors who collaborate closely with local business leaders in the Southern Maryland region and the Calvert County Department of Economic Development to provide assistance to small business owners. THE SBDC can provide free one-on-one counseling services for a variety of business needs including:
Accounting systems
Business plan development
Business valuation
Equity funding development
Feasibility studies
Financial analysis and financial projections
Management information systems
Management issues
Market research/planning
Needs assessments
Strategic planning
Structuring a business
Beginning Farmer Success Program
The Beginning Farmer Success Program by the University of Maryland Extension: This program provides new farmers with resources and contacts to be able to explore enterprise options, refine ideas, develop plans and strategies and implement their farming practice.
START (Starting, Transitioning and ReTurning Farmers Network (a program of Maryland FarmLINK), provides networking opportunities, assistance and resources to new, young and beginning farmers.
Farmland to Lease or Purchase Direct consulting for those wishing to work, lease or purchase farmland in Maryland.
Start2Farm Farmers.gov USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) contains a variety of agencies which provide business setup and ongoing support for farms of all types and sizes. Services provided include access to capital and other financial resources, conservation of natural resources, and knowledge of farming in our community.
Mentor Match Program This Maryland FarmLINK program pairs experienced farmers (mentors) with new or transitioning farm owners/operators (mentees) for one-on-one training, advice and interaction.
Beginner Farmer Training Program This program by Future Harvest Chesapeake Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture is a year long program for people who are interested in taking their passion for farming to the next level.
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