Thinking Like a Farmer, Operating Like an Entrepreneur is a foundational course designed for young start-up farmers with limited capital who want to build farms that survive first, stabilize second, and grow sustainably.
Farming in South Africa is shaped by uncertainty — rising input costs, unreliable infrastructure, limited access to finance, and real operational risks. This course recognizes that hard work and passion alone are not enough. Farmers must learn to think in systems, manage risk, and make disciplined decisions like entrepreneurs.
This course focuses on the mindset, skills, and systems required before scale, equipment, or expansion. Learners are guided step-by-step to avoid common beginner mistakes such as overpaying, rushing decisions, falling for scams, and starting too big too fast.
What You Will Learn
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How to think like a farmer while operating like an entrepreneur
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How to protect cash flow and avoid costly early mistakes
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How to build simple systems before buying animals
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How to make calm, informed decisions under pressure
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How to start small, manage risk, and grow with control
Who This Course Is For
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Young and first-time farmers
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Start-up farmers with limited budgets
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Entrepreneurs entering agriculture without formal training
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Anyone who wants practical, real-world farming knowledge, not theory
Learning Approach
This course is beginner-friendly and avoids unnecessary complexity. Lessons are practical, direct, and supported by practice quizzes and workbooks. A final assessment ensures that learners demonstrate real understanding before progressing.
Core Principle:
Thinking like a farmer. Operating like an entrepreneur.
- Teacher: Jake Nel