Female farmers can benefit from Annie’s Project — a popular, back-by-demand program that helps them learn about building a successful farm business in a stress-free, open environment with, and from, their peers.

The program is delivered by West Virginia University Extension Service faculty and staff at locations statewide and will also be offered online.

Annie’s Project provides training, resources and networking opportunities to help West Virginia women build viable, efficient and sustainable farm businesses. Everything from business plans to risk management and marketing to partnerships will be covered.

However, according to organizers, it’s not so much the topics covered, but rather how they are delivered.

“We do everything in our power to ensure that these women feel comfortable, are receptive to learning and speak up when they have questions or ideas about the subject matter,” said Dee Singh-Knights, WVU Extension Service agricultural economics specialist. “It creates an environment that’s favorable for true, lasting and meaningful learning — it’s what makes this project a unique and welcoming experience for women in our field.”

Multi-week trainings specific to certain areas are scheduled to start in January and run through May. The cost is $25, which includes all materials and refreshments. Pre-registration is required, and the local WVU Extension Service office can provide information about when classes are in certain areas.

For more information about Annie’s Project, visit bit.ly/AnniesProject or contact Singh-Knights at 304-293-7606.

Connecting the people of West Virginia to the University’s resources and programs is the primary goal of WVU Extension Service and its 55 offices throughout the state. Local experts, like WVU Extension’s agents and specialists, work to help improve the lifestyles and well-being of youths, workforces, communities, farms and businesses through trusted research in the counties in which they serve.

To learn more about WVU Extension programs, visit www.ext.wvu.edu, or contact your local office of the WVU Extension Service.

-WVU-

zl/01/22/16

CONTACT: Cassie Thomas, WVU Extension Service
304.293.8735, Cassie.Thomas@mail.wvu.edu

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