Farmer Freedom School
Our Farmer Freedom School carries forward the legacy of the Civil Rights-era Freedom Schools, which used education as a tool of liberation and resistance against systemic oppression, and reimagines that model for today’s Black and Indigenous farmers.
The School
Rooted in cultural heritage, our trainings frame lessons in their historical context. The program blends agricultural, business, and wellness education and tools with the wisdom of guest speakers who share their knowledge and lived experiences. By taking this holistic approach, The Farmer Freedom School supports producers in reclaiming ancestral traditions, bridging gaps left by traditional education systems, and building thriving, self-determined food businesses that nourish and empower our communities.
School Offerings
Click Title To Learn More
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Starting a Business (16 weeks) – Planning, operations, marketing, financial literacy
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Growing a Business (11 weeks) – Expansion, scaling, market diversification
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Managing a Business (15 weeks) – Advanced management, sustainability, job creation
Registration For Starting A Business Has Closed
Sign Up For Our Newsletter To Stay In The Loop For When We Open Registration For Cohort 2: Managing A Business
Softskills Workshops
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Communication Skills: Effective interpersonal communication, public speaking, and storytelling
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Leadership & Teamwork: Building collaborative teams, managing conflict, and fostering inclusive leadership
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Time & Project Management: Organizing tasks, setting priorities, and meeting deadlines
Happens The Last Monday Of Every Month
Quarterly ServSafe Training (Supervisor & Food Handler)
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Food Safety & Sanitation: Teach proper food handling, storage, and hygiene practices
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Regulatory Compliance: Prepare participants to meet local and national standards and obtain certification.
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Operational Best Practices: Equip supervisors and staff with skills to manage food service operations safely
Happens IN-PERSON In The Philly Area
Next Class: March 14th
Guest Speaker Series
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Expert Knowledge Sharing: Industry leaders, experienced farmers, and community advocates share insights and best practices.
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Cultural & Historical Context: Highlight ancestral agricultural knowledge and the intersection of food, culture, and community wellness.
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Inspiration & Networking: Provide opportunities for participants to connect, ask questions, and gain mentorship to support personal and professional growth.
Happens the First Thursday Of The Month