Entrepreneurs in Dairying is a business training programme for aspiring dairy producers organised by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers in collaboration with The Andersons Centre, AHDB Dairy and the NFU. 

Now in its twelfth year, the course has seen over 450 applicants complete it, all from varying backgrounds within or related to the industry.  

The course provides commercial experience and learnings in people development, financial skills, business management, taxation and business structures including partnerships, joint venture and tenancies.

Applications are now open for the 2025 programme, which starts in late September. It is open to anyone involved in, or looking to be involved in, the dairy industry. Please note there is limited spaces per co-hort and applicants should 20 years old or over.

The 2025 Programme

1.      Understanding the Milk Market and Milk Products

2.      Future Opportunities for Entrepreneurs - Tony Evans (Andersons)

3.      People Management

4.      Finance Course - Tony Evans (Andersons). (Split into 2 sessions on subsequent days – this will require travel to a central venue and an overnight stay at additional cost)

5.      Business Planning and Funding

6.      Tax, Trading Structures and Succession + Farm Walk

7.   Final 2-day session hosted face-to-face - (this will require an overnight stay at additional cost)

Dairy product branding and consumer trends,

Working towards Net Zero and Dairy Farming in the environment

“Learning from the journey of past entrepreneurs”

During the course you will be visiting and hearing from successful dairy farmers, processors and retailers.

2025 Dates & Details

Participants should apply for the course based on their location

First session (for all): 24th September - West Retford Hotel, Nottingham DN22 7XG

Midlands/North: 30th September, 7th October, 21st & 22nd October, 28th October, 5th November

South: 2nd October, 23rd October, 4th & 5th October, 13th November, 20th November

Optional ‘Bonus session’ - Dairy Horizons 2025-2030 by kind invitation of The Trehane Trust

Final session (for all): 25th & 26th November - NFU, Stoneleigh Park

Cost £580 + VAT

If you have any questions about the course or would like more information on Entrepreneurs in Dairying please contact Laurabarber@rabdf.co.uk

How to apply

Complete and return an application form by clicking on the button below:

Please send completed applications to Laurabarber@rabdf.co.uk

Programme Organisers