California Needs Farms.
Farms Need CLBL.
Farming has never been easy, and modern costs and constraints make business viability even more daunting. That’s why the ag sector looks to the Center for Land-Based Learning for connections, knowledge, and tools. Our vast and varied network of experts is dedicated to helping you face the challenges head on. So whether you’re a specialty producer in need of a successor, a high-school student looking for an internship, or a worn-out tech exec with dreams of raising quail, we’re here to connect the dots.
Find programs in your community • Find programs in your community
Dreamers, Start Here.
Our four stepping-stone programs guide ag-curious adults from concept to cultivation.
Explorer Program
This 4-day course gives you the opportunity to kick the tires on an ag career and satisfy your curiosity. Learn about job pathways, gain some hands-on experience, visit a local farm, and ask all your burning questions. Interested students can graduate into the Beginning Farmer Training Program.
Beginner Farmer Training Program
If you’ve got the brains and the brawn, the Beginning Farmers Training Program will usher you through steep and speedy courses in business planning, crop production, marketing, pest management, plant science and more.
Farm Business Incubator
Program alumni and other early-stage, hand-scale growers ready to implement their business plans can launch their enterprise in the Farm Business Incubator a 4-year business accelerator that provides access to affordable land, equipment, and continued mentorship.
Farm manager training
Talented and motivated farm workers ready to lead operations can graduate from this 2-year program as Beginning Farm and Ranch Managers at the journeyman level. We combine paid on-the-job training on diverse farms with specialized classroom and practical instruction.
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Gateways for Business Growth
For those looking for land
If you are looking for land to kickstart your farm business, our Farm Business Incubator Program offers small parcels in West Sacramento and Woodland. Along with high-quality soil, you will receive access to equipment and support from our experienced staff.
For farm employers
Operations seeking high-caliber talent or who have identified existing stellar workers can partner with our Apprenticeship or AgHire programs and be confident in the knowledge, professionalism, and leadership skills our graduates obtain.
Looking for an Intern?
Students who have been through our youth programs have the skills, experience and interest to enter careers in all sectors of agriculture and conservation. If you are looking for the next generation of talent, we can help match your needs with great candidates.
For teachers
Introduce your high school students to careers in agriculture and environmental sciences with field days at regional farms, ag businesses, colleges and universities; offer high school students opportunities to build biodiversity and combat climate change, and inspire middle schoolers and high schoolers to find solutions to environmental challenges.