Course Description

"Strategic Business Planning for Sustainable Farming" is an innovative course offered by KULeuvenX that delves into the critical role of farmers in sustainable food systems. This comprehensive program equips learners with the knowledge and tools necessary to develop robust, resilient, and future-proof business models for farming enterprises. By exploring the complexities of agri-food systems and their impact on global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), participants will gain a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the value food chain.

What Students Will Learn

• Comprehend the current context and challenges of agri-food systems
• Understand the importance of strategic business planning in farming
• Develop skills to create a comprehensive business plan for a farming enterprise
• Apply various analytical tools such as SWOT, PESTEL, and Porter's 5 Forces to farming businesses
• Master market segmentation and value proposition creation in agriculture
• Utilize the Business Model Canvas to optimize farming operations
• Gain insights into entrepreneurship and management in the agricultural sector
• Learn to identify and leverage the six capitals of a farming business
• Understand local and global supporting environments for farming businesses
• Develop strategies to enhance farm resilience and sustainability

Pre-requisites

• Secondary school education
• Interest in the agro-value chain and agro-industry
• Basic understanding of business concepts
• Familiarity with agricultural practices (beneficial but not mandatory)

Course Coverage

• Introduction to agri-food systems and sustainable development goals
• Entrepreneurship vs. management in farming
• Internal and external factors affecting farming businesses
• SWOT analysis and strategy development for farms
• Value propositions and customer segmentation in agriculture
• Business Model Canvas application for farming enterprises
• Market analysis and competitive positioning in the agro-industry
• Sustainable and innovative farming practices
• Resilience-building strategies for farm businesses
• Future trends and opportunities in the agricultural sector

Target Audience

• Aspiring and current farmers looking to enhance their business acumen
• Agricultural entrepreneurs seeking to develop sustainable business models
• Students of agriculture, business, or environmental studies
• Professionals working in the agri-food industry or related fields
• Policymakers and researchers interested in sustainable food systems
• Anyone passionate about combining business strategy with sustainable farming practices

Real-World Applications

• Develop comprehensive business plans for new or existing farming enterprises
• Conduct thorough market analyses to identify opportunities in the agri-food sector
• Create value propositions that resonate with target customer segments
• Implement sustainable practices that align with global SDGs
• Enhance farm resilience through strategic planning and risk management
• Optimize farm operations using the Business Model Canvas framework
• Navigate the complex agri-food value chain more effectively
• Contribute to the development of sustainable food systems at local and global levels
• Make informed decisions about farm investments and expansions
• Adapt farming businesses to changing market conditions and environmental challenges

This course, developed in collaboration with renowned European projects like Newbie, Cocoreado, Fox, and Rustica, offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into strategic business planning for sustainable farming. By completing this program, learners will be well-equipped to contribute to the transformation of agri-food systems and drive innovation in the agricultural sector.