Agriculture is a sector that evolves, develops and knows no crisis. For this reason it can be an excellent solution for those who, together with a good preparation, also want to get involved with an outdoor job.
But we need to know the legislation, the requirements, what equipment is needed and how much everything costs, without forgetting what the market needs.
What you need to open a farm
The first thing you need is land, which obviously must be suitable for cultivation. If you are also planning a breeding, you need to think about dedicating a closed space for the winter period. Buildings dedicated to the storage of equipment, seeds, feed and machinery are also required. To get an idea you can visit Antoniniduea.it.
If cultivation involves plants or vegetables that need controlled temperatures, it is a good idea to evaluate the placement of a greenhouse.
Speaking of equipment, it should be clarified that these vary according to the type of cultivation chosen, but generally you cannot do without a tractor and a thresher.
What requirements do you need to open a farm?
In addition to having a good experience in the field, you will also need a degree related to agricultural techniques. Although it must be said that the requirements tend to vary from one region to another.
Once this is done, all we need to do is start with the bureaucratic procedure: opening the VAT number, registering with the Chamber of Commerce, opening the INPS position, authorizing the Fire Brigade and the competent ASL. If you intend to sell retail products, you will need Haccp certification for food hygiene, treatment and storage.
For bookkeeping purposes you will need to use a good accountant and you will also need to keep a Campaign Booklet to note down cultivation techniques and treatments, as well as product traceability.
The costs you will have to face
As there are several variables (vastness of the land, type of cultivation, etc.), it is not easy to define a unique cost for opening a farm. For this reason, writing a good business plan can be important, especially if you want to apply for a loan.
Alternatively, an activity that has already started after checking that it is up to standard, equipped with the work equipment and updated can be detected.
In the event that you do not intend to take over a company that has already started, you will need to calculate the costs of the material, equipment, means, purchase or rent of the land and buildings and any laboratory.
Regardless of the type of company you want to open, you must also consider the costs for heating, electricity, waste disposal, water, maintenance, vehicle fuel, the veterinarian, accountant and any employees.
For start-ups in the agricultural sector and for young entrepreneurs, there are subsidized loans and non-repayable loans provided by both the Regions and the European Union. To obtain more precise information, contact Coldiretti and the trade associations and monitor the calls for bids that provide loans and incentives that are clearly linked to the preparation of a business plan.
