Oklahoma Farm Bureau (OKFB) is making significant strides in supporting rural entrepreneurs and small business owners across the state with its innovative programs, including the recently expanded “In the Weeds” initiative. This program, along with their existing business accelerators, is designed to empower rural Oklahomans to secure funding, develop their businesses, and bring their innovative ideas to fruition.
According to Amarie Bartel, Oklahoma Farm Bureau’s Rural Economic Development Coordinator, the organization is committed to fostering growth in the state’s rural communities. “We’ve been so fortunate to expand our scope this year,” Bartel explains. “We are now offering a program for any rural small business owner, whether you own a coffee shop or an agricultural operation…anyone in that spectrum now has a program hosted by Oklahoma Farm Bureau called OKFB In the Weeds.”
Getting “In the Weeds” on Funding
The “In the Weeds” program is a four-part class offered quarterly in eight locations across Oklahoma. Its primary focus is to demystify the process of securing funding for small businesses. “We are getting in the weeds on how to secure funding,” Bartel emphasizes. “We cover all different types of funding, whether you need a loan or you need an investor. We’re helping rural small business owners to navigate that landscape.”
Farm Director KC Sheperd highlighted the inherent innovative spirit of agricultural producers, noting that they are the original innovators. Bartel echoed this sentiment, stating, “I always tell folks that rural Oklahomans and agriculturists are the original innovators. By necessity, we solve problems. It’s who we are and what we do.”
Hands-On Learning for Real-World Success
The program provides practical, hands-on experience. Bartel detailed the current session: “In Session Three…we’re going over the topic of unlocking lending opportunities. If someone wants a loan, such as a small business loan, they will be asked to fill out an application. And maybe that can be daunting.” To counter this, her team has created an example lending application for participants to practice with. “Oftentimes things aren’t so overwhelming if you’ve done it before,” she added. This approach ensures participants walk away with the necessary tools to pursue funding confidently.
The “In the Weeds” program is not exclusive to innovators; it welcomes any small business in need of a loan, or those who anticipate needing one in the future. “Just because it doesn’t apply to you right now doesn’t mean it won’t ever,” Bartel advised. “Go ahead and come on and put the tool in your toolbox because it will make life easier in the future.” This includes agricultural producers, Main Street business owners, and innovators alike.
Locations and How to Sign Up
For those interested in attending, signing up is straightforward. “They sign up on the Farm Bureau website,” Bartel explained. “It’s okfarmbureau.org/intheweeds.” The website clearly outlines the eight class locations: Fairview, Pryor, Alva, Drumright, Duncan, Wilburton, Elk City, and Ada. Participants can choose the location most convenient for them. As an added bonus, OKFB provides dinner for attendees, so pre-registration is essential for meal planning.
Bragging Rights: Success Stories from OKFB Programs
The impact of OKFB’s programs is evident in the numerous success stories of participating businesses. Bartel proudly shared some of these achievements:
- Innovative Prototypes: A participant who created a drone for treating invasive species is “almost on his last round of his prototype,” demonstrating significant progress from an initial idea.
- Market Expansion: A self-contained firefighting apparatus developed by a founder has expanded from cotton warehouse applications to securing interest from the Department of Defense, showcasing impressive market diversification.
- Job Creation: Founders coming out of the programs have collectively created an impressive 74 jobs across the state.
- Capital Raised: Participants have successfully raised substantial capital, with some founders securing more than $11 million in venture capital and lending. Additionally, founders have obtained over $2 million in grants and loans.
“Our founders are in it, they’re achieving success, and they make me so proud that I get to work with them,” Bartel expressed.
Looking ahead, Bartel confirmed that Session Three of “In the Weeds” will continue throughout the summer, kicking off on June 25 in Fairview and Pryor, with other locations following suit. The accelerator side of the house is also busy, with two new cohorts working through the curriculum for AG Accelerate Oklahoma and Activate Oklahoma.
If you’re a rural entrepreneur or small business owner in Oklahoma looking to grow, innovate, or secure funding, OKFB’s programs offer a valuable resource. For more information on all of their initiatives, visit okfarmbureau.org/accelerator. Don’t sell yourself short – this could be the perfect time to get involved and take your business to the next level.
To learn more watch the youtube video below:
