Program Development
Over the years, Widget Business Training Company 501(c)(3) (WBTC) has served a wide array of clients, including Tuskegee University, Fort Valley State University, Alcorn State University, STAG Vets Inc., and Foot Print Farms.
The company has earned recognition for its innovative agricultural education and entrepreneurial programming.
Nonprofit
In 2021, Widget DTC expanded its mission by establishing The Widget Business Training Company, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to developing training curricula for farmers, ranchers, and veterans in the agribusiness sector.
Hand-on Cultivation Training
Our hands-on training program focuses on best practices for cultivating high-value crops.
Participants will learn the fundamentals of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), soil health, pest management, and organic farming techniques to ensure sustainable and profitable crop production. Each session will combine theoretical knowledge with practical demonstrations, allowing farmers to apply what they've learned directly in the growing environment.
Financial Management Workshops
Understanding the financial aspects of farming is crucial for success. Our financial management workshops will equip farmers with essential skills in budgeting, financial documentation, record- keeping, and cash flow management. By introducing tools and strategies to track income and expenses effectively, we aim to empower farmers to make informed financial decisions that enhance their profitability.
Value-added Product Development
This workshop focuses on transforming raw materials into market-ready products. Participants learn the intricacies of product development, including recipe formulation, quality assurance, and compliance with food safety regulations.
Hands-on sessions provide experience in producing juices, syrups, and other value-added items, enabling farmers to diversify their offerings and increase revenue streams.
Market and Sales Training
To navigate the market effectively, farmers need robust marketing strategies. Our marketing workshops cover essential techniques for branding, digital marketing, and sales strategies tailored for their specific products.
Participants learn how to leverage social media, develop effective sales pitches, and engage with consumers both locally and online, enhancing their market presence and customer outreach.
Sustainable Farming Practices
As agriculture faces increasing pressure from sustainability concerns, our workshops emphasize the importance of sustainable farming practices. Sessions cover topics such as crop rotation, integrated pest management, and the use of renewable energy in farming operations. Farmers gain insights into how adopting sustainable practices can improve their yield while minimizing environmental impact.
Branding Assistance
Building a brand is essential for product differentiation and market success. We assist our clients by providing branding guidance, from label design to marketing strategies, ensuring that their products stand out in a competitive landscape. Our team mentors clients on effective branding techniques that resonate with target audiences.
On the Program Development side of the business, Widget writes applications for USDA funding, provides administrative services,
logistics, and compliance in alignment with the application regulations when requested. We have developed programs and workshop series for institutional, non-profit, and for-profit clients that want to assist farmers and ranchers to understand and implement USDA Programs and Practices. Examples of Program and workshop series' we have developed and conducted are as follows:
1. "Farming is a Business", some of the topics included in this program are "Heir Property", "Business Formation", "Record Keeping", "Record Keeping Software- Quick books", and "Marketing-Product-to Market".
2. "High Yield-Small Acres", we demonstrate how urban and rural farmers can be financially viable on 2-5 acres of land. This can be achieved by using innovative and intensive farming systems. Some of the topics included in this program are "Aquaponics", "Hydroponic/Aeroponics", "Growing in a Hoop House (High Tunnel), square-foot gardening and raised beds", "GAP (Good Agricultural Practice Certification),
3. "Seeds. Bees, and Soil", some of the topics included in this program are "Heirloom/Heritage Seeds", "Establishing Apiaries (Bee Hives) as a Pollinator habitat or creation of value-added products," and "Soil health (composting and cover crops) topics.
4. "Improving The Supply Chain Through Value Added Production" teaches farmers to add value to their produce by creating a recipe, then taking it to a formulation that increases the number of units produced. The workshops include Logo, Labeling and Packing; Website eCommerce; Selling online & Social Media Advertising; and Preparing Spec Sheets for Retail Outlets.
Honest Reviews
I have attended two zooms, this is my first in person workshop. I came to the in person workshop because I like the interaction, the facilities and enjoy the people.
Ruby D. – Antendee
J. Allen – Attendee
Everything has been going well with the garden. I'm happy to say that all plants are alive and well. I have attached pictures of our progress. Thanks for reaching out and I look forward to attending more workshops in the future.
C. Summers – Attendee
Thank you T.I.M.E Inc & Widget Development and Training Company for providing my family and I our first planter box. My grandkids Nolah G. and Arrington A. planted last Sunday after church. Funny thing is, Nolah has been asking her mom to plant some things for recreation for a very long time. Their smiles prove how appreciative we are for this life sustaining gift. Eternally grateful.
