Agribusiness Workshops
As part of our ongoing Extension and outreach mission, we offer a dynamic series of agribusiness workshops designed to help producers, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals strengthen and grow their operations.
Each session focuses on practical, research-based strategies you can apply immediately, from adding value and improving profitability to expanding markets and refining business models. Workshop topics change throughout the year. Check back in 2026 for our new workshop lineup.
Fall 2025 workshops
We will focus on how beef and livestock producers can create new income streams through direct marketing, branded meat programs, and differentiated production practices (e.g., grass-fed, local sourcing). Participants will analyze the costs, risks, and potential returns of moving beyond the commodity model—and learn how
to build a financial case for innovation on the farm.
Special presentations by:
- Virginia Cattlemen's Association: Topic - Virginia Verified Beef
- Lenah Nguyen, VCE and the Carver Food Enterprise Center: Topic - How producers can tap into new revenue streams by co-packing beef broth for commercial sales — turning bones into profits!
- Ag Lending by First Bank and Trust
- Virginia Farm Bureau on value-added opportunities for producers
Downloads
A hands-on workshop on how fruit and orchard producers can grow profitability through product differentiation and value-added strategies. Explore direct marketing, farm-based products, agritourism, and processing to move beyond wholesale markets. Learn the economics of value creation and planning for success
in a changing consumer landscape.
Special presentation by: Virginia Farm Bureau on their value-added opportunities for producers
Downloads:
Virginia’s wine and grape industries offer exciting opportunities for value creation. This workshop will focus on how small and mid-sized vineyards and wineries can use brand identity, agritourism, and direct-to-consumer channels to build resilient business models. We’ll break down the economics behind these strategies and offer planning tools to support long-term growth in a competitive market.
Special guest: Paul Briedé of Briedé Family Vineyards — Renowned for their rare cultivars unique to Virginia — making their winery truly one-of-a-kind.
Special presentations by: Virginia Farm Bureau and Horizon Farm Credit
Downloads
This interactive session will help row crop producers evaluate how alternative business models—like regenerative practices, or niche grain markets — can offer an edge in today’s volatile commodity markets. Participants will explore financial tools and marketing approaches that support diversified revenue streams, while hearing success stories about those who’ve made the leap.
Special presentations by:
- Eric Chou, business development manager, Hodo
- William Thomas, Farm Credit of the Virginias
Downloads
Speakers:
- Mario Ortez, Collegiate Assistant Professor of Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship
- Kohl Centre Agri-Food Finance Fellows
Our sponsors:
- Southern Extension Risk Management Education
- USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture
- Virginia Cooperative Extension
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit ext.vt.edu/accessibility.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Mario Ortez at 540-231-8908 during business hours of 9 am and 4 pm to discuss accommodations 5 days prior to the event.