Free business course aims to grow Puerto Rico’s agribusiness sector
The Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture has introduced a free business development course intended to strengthen local agribusinesses and encourage new entrepreneurship across the island.
Through its Agricultural Development Innovation Fund (FIDA, in Spanish), the agency will offer the Nx Level-Business Training Program for Farmers and Young Agribusiness Entrepreneurs in August and September. The course, capped at 40 participants, is open to those looking to start or expand small- and medium-sized enterprises in agricultural production.
Agriculture Secretary Josué Rivera said the training is part of a broader government effort to foster new agribusinesses and encourage generational change in the sector.
“Innovation and business training are key for Puerto Rico’s agricultural production to continue growing with strength and vision,” Rivera said.
The curriculum covers business fundamentals such as resource inventory, business planning, market research, human resource management, legal contracting, budgeting, financing strategies and succession planning.
Participants will also receive up to 18 hours of individual consulting from the Puerto Rico Small Business and Technology Development Center, which will assist in reviewing and developing business plans.
“We know that many farmers have the technical knowledge and passion for farming, but they need structured support to develop their business model and make it sustainable,” said Ruth Pagán, FIDA’s executive director. “With this training, we reinforce the vision of a skilled, competitive agribusiness prepared to face market challenges.”
Virtual sessions are scheduled for Aug. 12, 14, 19, 21, 26 and 28, and Sept. 2, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The program will conclude with an in-person session at the Interamerican University of Arecibo on Sept. 4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., where participants will receive a certificate and a binder of course materials.
Registration is available by email or through an online form.
