Marbleseed opens applications for organic farmer mentorship program

Marbleseed has opened applications for the 19th year of its Farmer-to-Farmer Mentorship Program, which pairs newer organic or transitioning farmers with experienced growers for one-on-one guidance.

The yearlong program runs from January 2026 through February 2027 and is designed to help farmers move their operations forward by focusing on a specific production, business or quality-of-life goal. Mentorships are available in:

• Wisconsin
• Minnesota
• Iowa
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Michigan
• North Dakota
• South Dakota

Applications are due Dec. 1. Eligible participants must have operated their farm business for at least one year. Accepted farmers will be notified by January.

The program fee is $350 for mentees, which includes admission for both mentor and mentee to two Marbleseed Organic Farming Conferences, a $600 value. A limited number of scholarships are available to help offset the cost.

The program is structured to be flexible and farmer-friendly. Instead of requiring interns on the mentor’s farm, participants set their own goals and determine communication rhythms that work best for them. Mentors are expected to visit the mentee’s farm at least once during the season and remain available by email or phone throughout the year.

Applications ask farmers to share details such as their farming experience, crops or livestock raised, acreage, marketing channels and organic learning experiences. Applicants must also agree to program expectations, including regular communication with their mentor and attendance at the Marbleseed conference.

Program requirements for mentors

The Marbleseed team pairs experienced farmer mentors with a mentee based on specialty and proximity to each other’s farms. Mentors receive a stipend for sharing their time and knowledge with their mentee.

Interested farmers can apply for the Marbleseed Farmer-to-Farmer Mentorship program online or email Tay Fatke for more information about the program and scholarship opportunities.