FAS Connect Next Generation Groups

In 2024, two pilot FAS Connect Next Generation groups were launched covering South & Central (spanning Scottish Borders to Isle of Bute and everywhere in between) and Kintyre peninsula. These groups meet between two and four times per year, usually in the evenings or weekends, over a two-year programme focussing on personal development and mentoring. At the end of the programme, group members are encouraged to expand their technical knowledge by joining some of the established FAS Connect groups across the country.  

Containing a wide range of backgrounds from aspiring new entrants to successors these groups have had a successful first year, including farm visits and networking with other like-minded individuals facing similar challenges. A highlight of the South & Central group was a two-day meeting on joint ventures. On day one the group visited an elderly farmer in Darvel who was seeking a joint venture agreement, and attendees had the opportunity to ask the farmer questions about the farm during the tour.  

Back at the hotel, working in pairs, the group completed activities on business ideas and costings for the joint venture agreement on the Darvel farm. During day two the pairs had the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to a panel featuring the farmer Ian Davidson from the Scottish Land Matching Service (SLMS), and Alex Guthrie, a local agricultural accountant, before receiving some feedback. After being pushed out of their comfort zones, participants left with a greater understanding of the business planning and proposal process as indicated by their feedback: 

“A really great event! Fantastic opportunity to produce and present a proposal.” 

“Really useful task to focus us on how to approach future opportunities.” 

“Great session, great location! Loved getting to know everyone a bit better. I was able to push myself a bit more than I normally would by getting up and speaking in front of everyone and pitching my/our team idea for it to be picked by a panel. It was a lot more nerve wracking than I thought but definitely gave me something to think about. It’s a great bunch to be a part of.”

Kintyre Group out on Farm

 

If you would like to register your interest for a similar group in your area, please complete the short survey. Additional FAS Connect Next Generation groups will be launched depending on demand and similar interests.