• FEB / MAR 2021
FARM NEWS 13
Farming Entrepreneur ’ s Network Business Success
JO Martin who farms in County Durham with her husband Peter and sons Daniel and Robert , realised there was a gap in the market for rural business support on a whole range of issues from the best route for diversification to marketing . She therefore created Rural Business Network , a membership organisation for farmers and rural business owners to learn , connect and grow .
‘ my aim is that it will be the ‘ go-to ’ for
rural business support across the UK ’
Jo was shortlisted for the 2020 digital innovator of the year in the British Farming Awards for the growing success of her organisation and was also in the semi-final of a Santander emerging entrepreneur competition to win funding .
Jo Martin said : “ I am so pleased how well the network has been received by farmers in such as short amount of time .
“ It will be a game changer for our community and will help build my vision of providing networking opportunities , sharing best practice and developing new opportunities for farmers and rural businesses to thrive .
“ When my boys were little I made and sold cakes at farmers ’ markets . I could have grown that business but didn ’ t know where to turn to for support . I needed knowledge , inspiration , resources and connections . I couldn ’ t find an organisation for people like me – a proud farmer who knows that another income stream is key to survival .
“ Fast-forward a few years and I have found the confidence to launch Rural Business Network . My aim is that it will be the ‘ go-to ’ for rural business support across the UK ”.
“ As a past Young Farmers ’ Clubs county organiser I have experience in managing a membership organisation and I know
that opportunities and collaboration can arise when like-minded people get together . And it ’ s not just for farmers , there are food processors , tourism businesses , creative businesses and professional services in membership – it ’ s for farmers and those in the supply chain too .
“ The online events give members the opportunity to learn as well as ask questions and make connections . Events are recorded so if a member is busy , they can watch the presentation at a time to suit them . The Facebook group allows me to alert members to funding opportunities and enables member to member questions and offers of support and collaboration .
“ Members span across the UK from the Scottish Highlands down to Devon and from Anglesey across to Norfolk . It ’ s been heart-warming watching members ’ farm diversification ideas come to fruition ”.
Find out more at rbn . org . uk
Call 01325 776510 , 0345 626 2711 , 07899 718401