We run this two-day course at least once a year at various locations across the UK.
Next dates: 14th & 15th September 2024
The course builds on the first-hand experience Ed Hamer of Chagfood CSA has gained in establishing and building his own successful CSA over the past twelve years to support you in developing the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence for you to start a CSA in your own community. It also draws on the experience of the host CSA where the course is being run.
The course is aimed at individuals and community groups who are hoping to establish a CSA or have already established a CSA enterprise but are looking to take it to the next level regarding membership or new enterprises.
If you are thinking about or in the process of setting up a small-scale farming business, the CSA model is one of the best ways of getting a small-scale farming enterprise off the ground.
What the weekend covers:
Day 1:
- Introduction to Chagfood, the host CSA & the format of the weekend
- First steps of a CSA
- Identifying demand
- Start-up costs and infrastructure
- Finding a suitable site and securing planning permission
- Initial business planning
- Tour of host CSA
- Lunch
- Crop planning specific to CSA’s
- Fertility building
- Delivering your first season
- Managing finances and membership
- Evening Meal (optional)
Day 2:
- Increasing membership & marketing
- Growing field scale
- Generating additional revenue through wholesale
- Business planning for expansion
- Lunch
- Diversifying your CSA
- Flower shares
The full cost is £125 for either day or £220 for both days including meals; (lunch/dinner, breakfast/lunch).
Tickets
If you would like to book a place please send an email to chagfood@gmail.com and you will receive a request for a BACS payment up front.
If you would like any further information on the course content please email chagfood@gmail.com or call Ed on 07858 381539