FAYETTEVILLE — Applications are being accepted until July 31 for the ninth class to participate in an e-learning financial and business planning course.

The Ag Biz Planner curriculum includes financial and business planning, budgeting and other money matters essential to a farm’s success. Participants will have the opportunity to interact and benchmark with producers from the other associations throughout the program and network at a conference at the conclusion of the program in Raleigh.

Cape Fear Farm Credit is offering the Farm Credit University online program in conjunction with the Farm Credit Associations in North Carolina and Virginia, including AgCarolina Farm Credit, Carolina Farm Credit, Farm Credit of the Virginias and Colonial Farm Credit.

Farm Credit’s e-learning program targets young, beginning, small, and minority farmers throughout the state. Participants will be assigned a Cape Fear Farm Credit loan officer to serve as their mentor throughout the course. Highlights of the program include modules that cover business and personal financial planning, understanding income statements, cash flow, and the smart use of credit on the farm. Each participant will have completed a business plan for their operation by the conclusion of the class.

“The Ag Biz course is a great opportunity for farmers to learn more about how to plan for success in their business and work smart for a better future.” said Josh Alost, a mentor in the program.

Cape Fear Farm Credit will accept up to five participants for the program, which will begin in September and run through January. Applications, a course outline, and program information are available at capefearfarmcredit.com. Individuals selected for the program will be notified after Aug. 11. The course will conclude with a group conference in Raleigh on Jan. 10 and Jan. 11 in 2018.