The participant’s fee reflects approximately 1/3 of the actual cost for the individual to participate in the seminars, with sponsors from both the private and public sectors providing the balance.

The program is under the direction of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS). UF/IFAS provides support with program administration, instructors, facilities and supplies. Other state and private universities throughout Florida provide support with facilities and instructors. Related associations, businesses and organizations provide similar support, as do various levels of government.

Program Costs

Each participant must:

• Contribute a fee of $7,000, one-half of which is due prior to the first seminar. The other half is due at the beginning of the second year of the program.
• Be responsible for incidental costs of being away from home.
• Be responsible for the cost of travel to and from seminars or departure sites.

Note: The participant must also consider the costs related to being away from home and/or business for the approximately 55 training days. See “Program Seminars.”

Participant Requirements

Each participant must:

• Be fully committed to participate in all study/travel seminars. Spouses/significant others are encouraged to participate in parts of the three seminars.
• Continue for the full two-year program.
• Demonstrate a satisfactory level of interest.
• Act in a credible manner representing the program.
• If self-employed, provide evidence that time away from the business will not be a detriment to that business.
• If not self-employed, provide written approval from his/her employer.