PFI welcomes new cohort of beginning farmers to Savings Incentive Program

Seventeen beginning farmers have been accepted into Practical Farmers of Iowa’s Savings Incentive Program (SIP) Class of 2026, including Catherine Schut of Prairie City with her flowers, chickens and bees. Since 2010, the two-year program has helped more than 200 beginning farmers create successful farm businesses through mentorship, business support and financial support.

“As a small, specialty crop farm focused on building an agritourism destination, we think this program can provide us with the resources, guidance and community support needed to grow our farm’s impact and efficiency,” Ryan Madison, a member of the SIP Class of 2026, said. “By participating, we hope to enhance our sustainability efforts, strengthen our market strategies and contribute to Iowa’s thriving agricultural community.”

From production to business management, there’s a lot to manage when starting a farm. This program helps farmers stay accountable to their goals and to creating a business plan. Throughout the two-year program, participants get business support from PFI staff, make valuable connections with other farmers and grow their savings. PFI matches their savings when they complete the program requirements.

“Starting a farm is a huge undertaking, so having a strong support system can make all the difference,” Savanah Laur, PFI’s business viability manager, said. “We’re excited to welcome this year’s cohort and support them in building resilient, successful farm businesses.”