While we strive to cover as many situations as possible, there may still be scenarios we haven’t envisioned. If you come across something different, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We value your input and will do our best to incorporate it into our reference materials.
STARTING UP
Unlock the potential of your business journey with our comprehensive suite of information tools. Starting a business can be a daunting and frustrating endeavor, but fear not! We’ve curated a collection of invaluable resources to ensure you stay on track and make informed decisions every step of the way. Let us empower you to elevate yourself and your business to new heights of success.d stray away from the correct information. This is why we have compiled a list of great information tools to help you along your journey to bettering yourself and your business.
Our primary objective is to offer valuable information to microgreen growers, aiming to educate and empower them to run their farms with greater efficiency and success. However, it is crucial to note that the content provided on this site and by the association should not be considered authoritative medical, financial, or legal advice. It is not a substitute for seeking professional guidance in these specific areas. We strongly recommend consulting trained professionals in the respective fields to address any medical, legal, or financial concerns you may have.
There are many things to consider when starting a business. It is always recommended to start with a business plan.
Business Plan
A solid business plan is essential for new farmers. It outlines a clear strategy, sets objectives, and keeps everyone involved productive and focused. While creating a business plan, mistakes can occur. To assist you, we offer business plan templates on our resource page.
Farm Food Safety Plan Template
It’s your comprehensive guide to developing a customized food safety plan for your farm or food production facility. With easy-to-follow instructions, customizable templates, and industry best practices, this template helps you identify hazards, establish preventive measures, and take corrective actions to ensure product safety and quality. It aligns with regulatory requirements and certifications like GAP, GHP, and FSMA, showcasing your commitment to food safety and customer trust.
Do I need a farm number ?
What is a farm number and why should you consider obtaining one? The farm number serves as your identification as a farmer for government purposes and is utilized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for its various programs. These programs are administered locally through county-based offices of the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
It’s important to note that a farm number is associated with the land rather than the individual farmer. Furthermore, the production history of the farm is connected to the farm number. In the event that you decide to sell the land, the farm number and production history contribute to the overall value of the property.
To acquire your farm number, simply reach out to your local FSA office and inquire about obtaining one. They can provide you with your farm number at no cost.
Food Safety Modernization Act
The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), signed into law on January 4, 2011, is a significant reform in U.S. food safety regulations in over 70 years. Its primary objective is to establish a preventive approach to foodborne illnesses and outbreaks, fostering a culture of prevention rather than reaction.
One important component of FSMA is the “Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption,” commonly known as the Produce Safety Rule. This rule mandates that at least one representative from a farm must attend the Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training or another FDA-recognized curriculum. This training equips growers with a comprehensive understanding of FSMA regulations and how to ensure compliance.
Many microgreen growers are exempt from the regulations based on their size, as indicated in the provided chart. However, it is important to note that even for those exempt, implementing a Farm Safety Plan is still necessary for Class A growers.
FDACS
FDACS, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, plays a vital role in supporting and promoting Florida agriculture, protecting the environment, ensuring consumer safety, and upholding food quality standards. It is essential to be aware that you may need to acquire certain licenses from FDACS for your business.
Do I need a Nursery License for Microgreens?
To sell cut microgreens, a nursery license is not required as they are considered an agricultural commodity. However, if you sell live microgreens, the Division of Plant Industry (DPI) states that you must obtain a license for selling live plants. This requirement is in place because consumers may use the plants in ways beyond your intended purpose. According to DPI’s definition, nursery stock includes various plants, trees, shrubs, and more, kept for propagation, sale, or distribution.
Nurseries and stock dealers are subject to annual registration fees ranging from $35 to $460. The fees for nurseries are typically based on inventory or acreage.
For further inquiries, you can contact Tyson Emery at the DPI:
Tyson Emery Phone: (352) 395-4709 Email: Tyson.Emery@FDACS.gov
Do I need a Seed Dealer License for Microgreens Kit?
To sell vegetable or flower seeds in packets of less than 8 ounces, only the company responsible for packing the seeds for retail sale needs to obtain a license.
However, if a grower sells seeds in packets exceeding 8 ounces, such as selling 1 lb of wheatgrass seed, a license is required.
All licenses must be renewed annually, and they expire on June 30th of each year. It is the responsibility of the vendor from whom the seeds are purchased to obtain the license.
The fees for the license are based on gross receipts from seed sales in the preceding license year. For new businesses, the fee is determined based on anticipated receipts for the first license year.
For any questions regarding laboratory testing requirements, you can contact Patti Jones, Environmental Manager in the Seed Laboratory, Bureau of Agricultural Environmental Laboratories, at (850-617-7825).
For inquiries related to licensing and enforcement, please reach out to the Bureau of Licensing and Enforcement at:
Phone: (850) 617-7866 Fax: (850) 617-7893 Email: Shaness.Thomas@FDACS.gov
Do I need to file as county grower for Microgreens?
NO At this time there is no required document or forms from the Department of agriculture that need to be completed for you to grow and sell your microgreens.
OPTIONAL- Completing the form just lets them now that you are farming.
Do I need to be an agricultural dealer?
NO When you sell a crop you grow you do not need a license
YES If you sell/ resell other agricultural products than you need to be licensed and bonded. UNLESS your exempt
There are four specific exemptions to the law:
- Farmers or groups of farmers in the sale of agricultural products grown by themselves.
- A dealer in agricultural products who pays at the time of purchase with United States cash currency or a cash equivalent, such as a money order, cashier’s check, wire transfer, electronic funds transfer, or debit or credit card.
- A dealer in agricultural products who operates as a bonded licensee under the federal Packers and Stockyards Act.
- Dealers who purchase less than $1,000 worth of agricultural products from Florida producers or their agents or representatives during the peak month of such purchases within the calendar year.
- Under the Florida Agricultural License and Bond Law, any person, partnership or corporation doing business in Florida by buying, receiving, soliciting, handling or negotiating agricultural products from Florida producers or their agents for resale or processing for sale must be licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) unless exempt.
- Most growers easily fit within the exemptions.
Nursery
Ag Dealer
Seed Dealer
You should consider what name you want for your business, when you have decided this you will need to look up and make sure that name has not been taken. Its important to check with google, sun biz and domain name.
The purpose of a logo is to give your company an identity so you can grow your business by capturing new clients with a logo that speaks to them. Canva is a very popular place to design a logo.
County Liscense
Florida consists of 67 counties, each with its own distinct characteristics and local governments that implement regulations tailored to the specific needs of their residents. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore the homepage of their respective county websites to identify any additional requirements specific to their business ventures. It is important to note that the majority of counties in Florida impose a local business tax as part of their regulations.
INSURANCE
The most entry level plan required at farmers market, and events is a Flip policy. The Food Liability Insurance Program (FLIP) serves food business owners, such as bakers, caterers, chefs, food truck owners, and more.
This new insurance policy will be updated as more information is made available as to how it relates to microgreens.
SYSTEMS
How are you going to be a success and different from your competition. (Tip we are all individual and unique, so if you grow and whatever else your good at you companion business will reveal itself to you). On the resource page we have many systems listed some developed by other growers, and some by our partners. Some growers prefer to have more concrete direction. While we are building this site to meet those needs, as best we can, we know some would just prefer a system. Please also let us know what you would like us to add into the site. You do not need to purchase any system, to have a successful business!
One of the most common questions asked? What do I need to grow microgreens? The provided information pdf outlines a step-by-step guide for setting up a Microgreens grow rack, emphasizing the necessary supplies and precautions.
Do you find yourself wanting to know all the tips, tricks, and how to make it grow. Well expect to be let down. Also expect to here the words well it depends. No two grow environments are exactly the same, no two people are identical. On the resource page we have a grow guide for the most typical grow for that crop. We will also have sections in the forums for you ask any of us.
These could be affiliate links, meaning the association can receive a few pennies from the company if you buy through our link, at no cost to you. I likely didn’t do it right yet so…..but one day i will get it right.