If there is a program that has consistently proven popular among farm and rural economic development organizations since its beginning in 1992, it’s the Agriculture Institute of Management in
"What started out as an initiative to foster the development of producer clubs around the province—where agricultural producers would have a forum in which they would be able to share their experiences without having to go to larger centres—really took off," says Bev Magill, Advancing Canadian Agriculture and Agri-Food Saskatchewan (ACAAFS)/AIMS Project Officer assigned to the program.
For $150.00, these emerging groups could get access to an expert on themes like agri-tourism, farm planning, value chain development, project management, futures markets and a variety of topics vital to agricultural sustainability.
Initially, only marketing clubs were allowed to use the program, but now rural municipalities, Agricultural Development and Diversification (ADD) boards, regional economic development authorities and community futures corporations can all take advantage of it.
"Any group of 10 or more persons with an interest in agriculture can participate in the AIMS Consultant Workshop Program, which enables you to host guest speakers at a very low cost, while we sponsor the rest of the consultant’s fee and expenses," says Magill.
The topics selected for eligibility are submitted by speakers but must address current issues. The sponsored participant groups often suggest topics, as well.
"We conduct evaluations at every workshop and we take suggestions into account," she says. "We always get praise for the calibre of speakers selected. What really makes a difference, as well, is the opportunity that this provides to bring participants together around a meeting, a potluck supper or an activity, on location in rural Saskatchewan. The speaker goes to your community, and the program is flexible enough to allow you to schedule the event when it best suits your needs. You’ll learn about the latest farming trends, new management techniques and emerging issues. You’ll learn tips on how to run your operations more efficiently."
The number of sessions an organization is able to host through the AIMS Consultant Workshop Program each year may be restricted, but any group with an agricultural focus qualifies for the AIMS Consultant Workshop Program.
To request a speaker, an eligible group completes a Consultant Workshop application form and submits a registration fee to the Saskatchewan Council for Community Development (SCCD)-AIMS for each session requested.
To find our more about the AIMS Consultant Workshop Program, visit: www.sccd.sk.ca/aims.
For more information, contact:
Bev Magill
ACAAFS/AIMS Project Officer
Saskatchewan Council for Community Development
(306) 975- 8928
www.sccd.sk.ca/aims
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