Research Assistant: Small-Scale Farm Business Plan
Budget: $10 – $30 USD
Are you a highly motivated and detail-oriented individual with a passion for sustainable agriculture and entrepreneurship? We are seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to develop a comprehensive business plan for a new, seven-acre, cash-crop-focused farm startup in Herington, Dickinson County, Kansas.
Role Description
This is a critical, project-based role focused on the initial planning and feasibility study for the farm. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting in-depth research, financial modeling, and creating a final, investor-ready business plan.
Key Responsibilities
Market Analysis: Research and evaluate high-value, weather-resistant cash crops suitable for the 7-acre scale and the specific climate/soil conditions of Dickinson County, KS.
Crop Selection & Strategy: Develop a crop combination strategy, focusing on permissible options:
Fruits (e.g., small-scale orchard varieties, berries)
Flowers (e.g., cut flowers, perennial ornamentals)
Specialty Crops (e.g., mushrooms, garlic)
Note: Soy, wheat, and corn are excluded from the plan.
Operational Planning: Outline essential infrastructure, equipment needs, and labor requirements for a small-scale, intensive operation.
Financial Modeling: Create detailed financial projections, including startup costs, operating expenses, revenue forecasts, and a clear path to profitability.
Business Plan Documentation: Write and compile all research into a professional, comprehensive business plan document.
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience) in Business, Finance, Agricultural Economics, Horticulture, or a related field.
Experience: Proven experience in business plan development, market research, or financial analysis, preferably within the agricultural or small business sector.
Skills:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel or similar tools for financial modeling.
Ability to conduct independent research and synthesize complex data.
Understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of small-scale farming and direct-to-consumer/local markets.
Location: Familiarity with the Herington/Dickinson County area or a strong ability to research local market conditions is a plus.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and explaining your approach to developing a resilient, specialty crop strategy for a small Kansas farm.
This is a temporary/contract position with a defined deliverable (the final business plan).
Take the first step in cultivating a new business idea—Apply Today!
Role Description
This is a critical, project-based role focused on the initial planning and feasibility study for the farm. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting in-depth research, financial modeling, and creating a final, investor-ready business plan.
Key Responsibilities
Market Analysis: Research and evaluate high-value, weather-resistant cash crops suitable for the 7-acre scale and the specific climate/soil conditions of Dickinson County, KS.
Crop Selection & Strategy: Develop a crop combination strategy, focusing on permissible options:
Fruits (e.g., small-scale orchard varieties, berries)
Flowers (e.g., cut flowers, perennial ornamentals)
Specialty Crops (e.g., mushrooms, garlic)
Note: Soy, wheat, and corn are excluded from the plan.
Operational Planning: Outline essential infrastructure, equipment needs, and labor requirements for a small-scale, intensive operation.
Financial Modeling: Create detailed financial projections, including startup costs, operating expenses, revenue forecasts, and a clear path to profitability.
Business Plan Documentation: Write and compile all research into a professional, comprehensive business plan document.
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience) in Business, Finance, Agricultural Economics, Horticulture, or a related field.
Experience: Proven experience in business plan development, market research, or financial analysis, preferably within the agricultural or small business sector.
Skills:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel or similar tools for financial modeling.
Ability to conduct independent research and synthesize complex data.
Understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities of small-scale farming and direct-to-consumer/local markets.
Location: Familiarity with the Herington/Dickinson County area or a strong ability to research local market conditions is a plus.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and explaining your approach to developing a resilient, specialty crop strategy for a small Kansas farm.
This is a temporary/contract position with a defined deliverable (the final business plan).
Take the first step in cultivating a new business idea—Apply Today!