Agriculture Entrepreneurs

AG-X

Scale Your Agri-Business with the AG-X Workshop Series

Discover the transformative power of the AG-X workshop series, a collaborative effort by Richmond SCORE and Dominion Energy Innovation Center. Designed to foster growth and strengthen the regional economy, this six-week program equips participants with essential tools, principles, and industry connections necessary for success.

Unlock Your Agri-Business Potential with AG-X Workshops

Join us at the DEIC’s downtown Ashland co-working facility for an immersive and informative workshop series. Led by industry experts, including former agri-business executive Glen Sink, the AG-X workshops offer a deep dive into business operations, strategic planning, and valuable networking opportunities. Develop a robust business plan to thrive in the modern agrisector.

Who Is This Workshop Series For?

The AG-X Business Planning Workshop Series is open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, aiming to accelerate growth in the current economic climate. Tailored for entrepreneurs introducing value-added agricultural products, services, or brands, this program empowers ventures like controlled environment agriculture, artisanal cheese, or field monitoring drones.

The cost to participate in the AG-X Workshop Series is $125 per company for up to three team members.

What You Will Learn

Week 1: Introduction to Agribusiness Growth Models

Explore Agribusiness Growth Models in Week 1. Gain insights into the foundations of growth, strategic planning, and the key factors driving success in the agricultural industry.

Business Model Canvas
Planning Building Blocks
Feasibility Analysis
Values, Mission, Vision, Culture

Week 2: Developing Your Business Market Research & Strategy

In Week 2, learn to develop effective market research and strategy for your business. Discover market trends, define your target audience, and create a winning brand.

Market and industry Research
Market Strategy
Customer Profile
Your Brand

Week 3: Developing Your Operations & Management Plans

Unlock the secrets to developing efficient operations and management plans in Week 3. Explore key partnerships, staffing, leadership, metrics, and organizational strategies for business success.

Key Partnerships and Roles
Operations – Staffing
Leadership Vs. Management
Operations
Metrics
Organizational Plan
Start-up Plan and Accountability

Week 4: Designing Your Customer Experience

In Week 4, master the art of designing exceptional customer experiences. Craft a winning marketing communication plan, optimize product/service delivery, and enhance the customer journey.

Making Your Business Happen
Marketing Communication Plan
Product/Service Delivery Plan
Customer Journey
Key Resources and Activities to Make Your Business Happen
Key Activities to Make Your Business Happen

Week 5: Constructing Your Business Financials

Week 5 is all about constructing solid business financials. Develop financial plans, revenue strategies, cost structures, and understand the key financial statements essential for business growth.

Financial Plans
Revenue Plans and operations
Start-up Finances and Growth Charts
Cost Structure
The three key financial Statements

Week 6: Center Street Pitch Competition

Put the pieces together in week 6 and present your agribusiness in the Center Street Pitch Competition. Showcase your food, fiber, forestry, or agriculture venture for a chance to win recognition and up to $5,000 in non-dilutive grant funding.