Farm Business Consultant

(Independent Contractor | Full-Time Commitment) Contract Terms: This is a one-year contract position, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and organizational needs. Annual contract value will range from $54,000 to $66,000, depending on qualifications and experience. Location Requirement The consultant must reside in Maryland or Delaware to ensure accessibility for client visits, meetings, and on-site support as needed. Travel within the region will be required. About Chesapeake Agriculture Innovation Center: The Chesapeake Agriculture Innovation Center (CAIC), founded in 2021, is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping farmers and watermen increase profitability and build sustainable businesses. We support both new and established producers through educational courses, one-on-one business consulting, food safety training, value-chain coordination efforts, online community, and resource connections. Our mission is to strengthen the regional food ecosystem across Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia by linking farmers with buyers, distributors, and service providers. One of CAIC’s core pillars is delivering high-quality, tailored business services—ranging from business and marketing plans to feasibility studies, bookkeeping, and more. The Farm Consultant will play a central role in ensuring these services are delivered with excellence, either directly or in coordination with third-party consultants. Scope of Work: The Farm Consultant is responsible for leading CAIC’s one-on-one business consulting services for farmers and value-added food producers. This includes developing and refining templates and systems to streamline delivery, scheduling and conducting consultations, providing follow-up support, coordinating with third-party consultants, and maintaining a high-quality client experience. The consultant will be helping with a variety of farm business needs including activities like business planning, grant writing or loan applications. The consultant will support clients in achieving tangible results, with a focus on improving profitability. Additionally, the Farm Consultant will attend CAIC’s weekly virtual classes to assist the instructor and provide direct support to participants. This role is designed to ensure CAIC’s business services are both impactful and results-driven. Qualifications: · Highly organized, able to work independently while thriving in collaboration · Strong business acumen across finance, management, marketing, and accounting · Tech-savvy, with proficiency in Google Suite, Zoom, and Slack · Confident communicator, bringing real-world experience to client interactions · Data-driven, skilled at leveraging external sources to validate plans and forecasts · Excellent written communication skills, from technical reports to persuasive narratives Preferred Experience · Background in farming and/or agriculture, with the ability to relate directly to clients · 4+ years as a business owner or in a management role · Experience delivering business or financial technical assistance to farm businesses · 2+ years working remotely If you’re interested in this opportunity, please submit your resume, with a cover letter if you wish (recommended but optional). Company DescriptionThe Chesapeake Agriculture Innovation Center is part of the Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center (ESEC). ESEC fosters economic growth and innovation in Maryland’s rural communities. Apply tot his job