The Battle Ground to Breaking Ground (BGBG) program is a holistic training initiative designed to increase the number of beginning farmers and ranchers in the U.S. and enhance the sustainability of their enterprises. While developed with a focus on active-duty military and veterans, the program is also open to families and the general public who are starting or enhancing an agricultural business.

The program reduces barriers to entry through a unique model that combines education, technical assistance, and a professional learning community. This community provides participants with ongoing business development guidance, production expertise, and potential linkages to land opportunities.

Program Tracks and Educational Opportunities

BGBG offers several distinct tracks tailored to different levels of experience and time constraints:

• Introduction to Agriculture Business (Online Course) This course introduces participants to farm and ranch concepts, business planning, and navigation of barriers to success. Successful completion provides a certificate to verify training hours for funding eligibility and increases the chances of tuition waiver acceptance for the Traditional Program.
• Introduction to Production Agriculture Boot Camp An in-person event designed for those with limited experience. It covers essential topics such as farm safety, business management, financial risk, and specific production methods including livestock, row crops, and vegetables.
• Traditional & Condensed Programs (Hybrid) These comprehensive tracks utilize a hybrid model involving online courses, mentorship, and networking.
  • Traditional Program: A 44-week course including 100 hours of hands-on training.
  • Condensed Program: A 27-week course covering similar material on an accelerated timeline.
  • Key Deliverable: In both tracks, participants complete a comprehensive business plan within 13 weeks.
• Skills Training Program (STP) Designed specifically for transitioning military members utilizing the DoD SkillBridge or Career Skills Program (CSP) during their final 180 days of service. This 13-week (89-day) cohort prepares participants for gainful self-employment as agriculture business managers or operators,.

Graduate Support & Mentorship Graduates of the BGBG program receive a Certificate of Completion, access to an extensive support network, and increased access to agriculture funding. Additionally, graduates may pursue the Mentor Training Program, which certifies them to receive a stipend for mentoring and providing hands-on training to current program participants