Annie's Project is an 18-hour farm business management course designed specifically for women in agriculture. The program aims to empower women by providing them with knowledge and skills to successfully manage their farms. The course covers topics such as farm finances, human resources, legal issues, marketing, and agricultural production. Annie's Project is named after Annette Kohlhagen Fleck, a farm woman who used good recordkeeping, sound decision making, and determination to navigate her family's farm through challenging times.
Ruth Hambleton, a University of Illinois extension educator, developed the program in honor of Annette Kohlhagen Fleck. Since its inception in 2003, more than 19,000 people have completed Annie's Project courses in 38 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
For many women in agriculture, Annie's Project has been their first significant exposure to what's involved with running a farm. The program has helped to overcome the lack of understanding and stress that women faced in the past. Annie's Project helps women to expand their knowledge, no matter what their level of farm knowledge may be, in ways that will help themselves and their families.
In Iowa alone, more than 128 Annie's Project courses have empowered 2,200 women in agriculture. Women like Jean Driscoll have used the knowledge they acquired from the program to continue to work and expand their farms. Annie's Project has provided women with the tools and confidence they need to succeed in the agriculture industry.
To learn more about opportunities for women in agriculture, visit the Women in Ag program website with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, or check out the national Annie’s Project website for events happening across the country.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-JackF
Categories: Iowa, General