Regional Agribusiness Development Initiative
Regional Agribusiness Development Initiative Announcement
June 15, 2009- December 15, 2010
NC REAL (Rural Entrepreneurship through Action Learning) is pleased to announce the Regional Agribusiness Development Initiative, an exciting project funded by the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund Commission . The overall goal of this project is to develop the capacity in the Upper Coastal Plain Region, a region historically dependent on the tobacco industry, to build the entrepreneurial skills of those who have lost jobs due to the decline in tobacco related industries. This increase in entrepreneurial skills will lead to the creation and expansion of more agricultural-based businesses throughout the region. This will be accomplished through a three-step approach. The first step is to develop the capacity of organizations in the regions to provide entrepreneurship education. These organizations include community colleges, high schools, community based organizations and other places where workers seek support. The second step is to adapt the REAL Entrepreneurship curriculum to help workers build on existing skills to develop new businesses in emerging agricultural industries such as organic, heritage, or specialty as well as other ventures. The final, most important step, is to reach out to current and former tobacco workers who are interested in entrepreneurship and provide the education and support they need to become successful entrepreneurs.
The Upper Coastal Plain Council of Government is a primary partner in this project and is working with NC REAL to pull together stakeholders throughout the region to assist in the design and implementation of this effort. The success of this project is dependent on the contribution from individuals and organizations that are familiar with the region. Partners are needed to help select agribusiness topics, reach out to current and former tobacco workers, participate in REAL entrepreneurship trainings, and provide support to aspiring entrepreneurs. If you are interested in becoming a part of this effort, please contact Malinda Todd at 919-781-6833 ext. 126 or email at Malinda@ncreal.org.