with the Flower Collective of Central New York

Learn & Grow Together

The Flower Collective of Central New York is excited to offer mentorship to flower farmers throughout the Syracuse area. Our group strongly believes in community care, and we strive to increase access to profitable careers in agriculture. Below you'll find more information about this new, free service for growers who are accepted into the Collective.

Eligibility

Mentorship is required for growers who do not fully meet our experience thresholds but share our core values and show strong potential as wholesale cut flower farmers. However, this resource is available to any farmer in the Collective who feels they could benefit from some extra one-on-one support, regardless of their experience level.

What to expect

Based on the results of your initial assessment, mentees in this program will be matched with a peer mentor who will facilitate your business goals and action plan, as well as oversee your wholesale program for the year. You will work with your mentor for 5-8 coaching sessions depending on the level of support needed.

Bonus Perks

In addition to an individualized action plan and personalized support, the Collective will also conduct at least one on-farm visit and provide a 15-minute mini photography session that you can utilize as you continue to build your brand.

Making the most of Mentorship

Before

Mentees should complete their Resource Assessment prior to their first session.

Before your initial meeting with your mentor, take time to gather any important records or notes that you've taken in previous farm seasons. Informally, reflect on your personal and professional goals and values. We want to help you achieve a career that aligns with your lifestyle.

During

During your first session, you will work with your mentor to create a meeting calendar, discuss your resource assessment, set goals, and create an action plan for the growing season. Your mentor will use this data to create an individualized mentorship plan catered to you and your farm.

Come to your sessions prepared to share notes with your mentor and review constructive feedback. You will use this to complete your Monthly Action Plan together.

After

After each session, take a few moments on your own to reflect on your discussions and use this as the focus for your farm work. Periodically, depending on your goals, your mentor may need to schedule on-farm visits or collect product samples. Be sure to continually gather data that you can talk through with your mentor during your next session.

This service is designed so you don't have to figure it out all by yourself. Be sure to ask questions between sessions and lean on your mentor for support as you need it!