Small Producers Initiative
Welcome!
Small Producers Initiative (SPI) is a program housed in the Department of Agricultural Sciences at Texas State University.
We provide outreach, education and training to small and mid-sized producers. We program online courses and webinars, and host in-person sustainability-focused workshops and field days on farms and ranches throughout Texas. Join us today!
Upcoming Events
- Seasonal Grazing Strategies: Fall & Winter Planning, Oct 25-26 2024
- A two-day workshop at The Regen Ranch. Join us as we continue our exploration of holistic and regenerative management practices to build soil health and agro-ecosystem resilience.
- A two-day workshop at The Regen Ranch. Join us as we continue our exploration of holistic and regenerative management practices to build soil health and agro-ecosystem resilience.
- Increasing Profitability Through Adaptive Grazing, Nov 8-9 2024
- A two-day workshop at Menke Farm & Ranch, family-owned and operated since 1847. Hosted by SPI & Understanding Ag, you can expect to learn how to restore your land with adaptive grazing and build resiliency into your ranch.
- A two-day workshop at Menke Farm & Ranch, family-owned and operated since 1847. Hosted by SPI & Understanding Ag, you can expect to learn how to restore your land with adaptive grazing and build resiliency into your ranch.
- Regenerative Ranching to Restore Biodiversity, Nov 15 2024
- Join SPI & The Audubon Society to discuss programs and strategies designed to increase biodiversity and support wildlife in ranching operations.
- Join SPI & The Audubon Society to discuss programs and strategies designed to increase biodiversity and support wildlife in ranching operations.
- Online Beekeeping Course with Two Hives Honey
- This online course will help you prepare and better understand if beekeeping is right for you!
To learn more and view our full schedule view our Workshop Page.
News & Announcements
- SPI receives USDA funding to support our initiatives for regenerative agriculture!
Our Programs
- The annual Southern Family Farmers & Food Systems Conference
- Join SPI, Farm & Ranch Freedom Alliance (FARFA) and Council for Healthy Food Systems for the “biggest small farm food event in Texas!”
- Be part of the largest gathering of independent family farmers, ranchers, homesteaders, food systems policy advocates, local food enthusiasts, and community leaders.
- Take part in unparalleled educational sessions and networking opportunities aimed at revitalizing and shaping our local food system
- SPI's Agricultural Mentorship Program (SPI-AMP)
- Virtual bookkeeping classes and marketing workshops
- Grant and loan application assistance
- One-on-one financial consults in partnership with Kitchen Table Consultants
- Research on Regenerative Soil Solutions, Education, Extension and Demonstration (RReSSEED)
- On-farm demonstration events to educate small and urban producers about soil health and conservation practices
- Laboratory development and research
You can find out more by visiting the About Us section.