Agricultural workforce development initiatives

Agricultural workforce development and training initiatives are expanding in Colorado and South Africa to prepare future farming professionals.

In Colorado, the Agricultural Workforce Development Program is accepting applications for the 2027 growing season. The program provides grants of up to $5,000 to help local farms, ranches, and agricultural businesses cover half the cost of employing interns. Since 2018, the program has distributed over $1.25 million to support more than 280 internships. For the 2027 cycle, officials aim to award at least $300,000 to fund 60 or more internships, focusing on operations in the northwest and central mountain regions.

In South Africa, Agri Skills Transfer is expanding its offerings for the 2027 academic year. Based in Pretoria with practical training at the Cullinan Farm Training Centre, the institution is developing new residential facilities and expanding its occupational training. The program offers national diploma programmes in animal and plant production, alongside new QCTO certifications and specialized short courses designed to provide hands-on industry exposure.