Farm To Table : Agri-Business Simulation

The "Farm to Table" lab offers an in-depth, hands-on experience where students step into the role of farm managers, responsible for running a virtual 48-acre farm. The challenge is to run the farm for one year and generate a profit of at least $50,000. Over the course of the lab, students will engage in strategic decision-making as they choose which crops to grow—Tomatoes, Onions, Carrots, Strawberries, Pumpkins, and Basil—while considering market demand, environmental sustainability, and profitability.

The following are the activities included-

• Understand the basic steps involved in farm management and familiarize with the crops.
• Understand the basics of business - Demand, Revenue & Profit
• Calculate the direct and indirect costs of farming in the 48 acres.
• Use the demand-revenue-profit curves for each crop to set the best price.
• Simulations of land allocation and harvesting
• Calculate the packaging and distribution costs.
• Prepare invoice
• Prepare income statement
• Write a letter to the sponsors about the success of their business and request additional funding and land for next year.

This lab not only provides students with practical farming knowledge but also teaches essential business skills such as cost management, pricing strategy, and profit analysis. It’s a comprehensive exercise that integrates agriculture with entrepreneurship, preparing students for real-world challenges.