Central State University Extension hosts inaugural Urban and Small-Scale Farmers Conference

In response to the burgeoning interest and growth in urban and small-scale farming, Central State University Extension is proud to announce its inaugural Urban and Small-Scale Farm Conference, scheduled for Jan. 24-25. This event aims to equip current and aspiring farmers with the knowledge and resources necessary to thrive in today's dynamic agricultural landscape.

Event details:

• Dates: Jan. 24-25, 2025
• Location: Joshua I. Smith Center for Education & Natural Sciences, Central State University, 1400 Brush Row Road, Wilberforce, Ohio 45384 View on Google Maps
• Schedule:
  • Jan. 24: Registration opens at 9 a.m.; conference sessions from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; vendor fair from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; dinner at 6 p.m.
  • Jan. 25: Sessions from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; vendor fair from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Conference highlights:

• Resource connections: Engage directly with representatives from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other key organizations dedicated to supporting urban and small-scale farming initiatives.
• Academic insights: Interact with Central State University's esteemed agricultural researchers to explore cutting-edge research and its practical applications for your farming endeavors.
• Youth engagement: Specialized programs designed for children aged 5-7 and 8-12, fostering the next generation's interest in sustainable agriculture.

Who should attend and why?

The conference welcomes urban and small-scale farmers, aspiring growers, and individuals interested in starting their own farming ventures, providing tailored resources and insights for every stage of their agricultural journey.

“CSU Extension is committed to lifting up underserved communities throughout the state by supporting successful small-scale and urban farms and farmers,” said Denise Natoli Brooks, Agriculture and Natural Resources Southeast Region Extension educator and conference committee chair. 

“When you have resources and skills to make your farm business more sustainable, you are better able to provide the freshest and most nutrient-rich foods for the communities that matter the most to you.”

The urban farming sector is experiencing significant growth, with market size projections increasing from $159.92 billion in 2024 to $174.23 billion in 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.9%, according to the Business Research Company’s Urban Farming Global Market Report 2025. This expansion is driven by factors such as rising urbanization, environmental concerns and a growing demand for locally sourced, fresh produce.

Despite this growth, challenges persist for small-scale farmers. In 2023, small family farms comprised 86% of all U.S. farms and managed 41% of agricultural land, yet they accounted for only 17% of the total value of U.S. agricultural production, according to the USDA Economic Research Service’s America’s Farms and Ranches at a Glance: 2024 Edition. 

The conference seeks to address these challenges by providing actionable insights and fostering connections that can enhance productivity and sustainability for small and urban farms.

Registration:

Join us in empowering the future of urban and small-scale farming. Together, we can cultivate a more sustainable and resilient agricultural community. 

Secure your participation by registering now at https://bit.ly/csu-urban-small-farms. Spaces are limited, and early registration is encouraged to ensure availability.

For more information, contact Denise Natoli Brooks at dbrooks@centralstate.edu or 937-831-5995.