Coming in 2027: Lean Farm Start-up
2-day intensive workshop
May 1-2, 2027
Limit of 20 partipants
You Can Farm
Enjoy the freedom of running your own farm, without the burnout.
- An exclusive 2-day intensive with Ben Hartman
- Learn from our 20 years of experience running a successful microfarm
- On-site at Clay Bottom Farm, Goshen, Indiana
- 9am-4pm each day, with optional one-on-one consultation with Ben
- Lunch included on both days
- Participants receive 50% off the Lean Micro Farm Masterclass, as well as discount codes for Ben's favorite tools and supplies
- For start-up and experienced growers alike
Cost: $800 regular price, $500 student/limited income
What you will learn in this workshop:
- how to use the DEEP MULCH METHOD for no-till/no-dig land preparation
- the lean system approach to setting up a nimble farm (the 7 mudas, kanban farming, and more)
- what you need for micro farm infrastructure (greenhouses, processing rooms, propagation house, and more)
- how to find those first customers using the Genchi Gembutsu method
- how to earn money in year one by growing high-value crops with less work - including innovative methods for growing tomatoes, spinach, spring mix, kale, fresh herbs, figs, and more
The workshop will be hands-on with field demos:
- on cutting edge tools like the micro farm greens harvester and paper pot transplanting system
- on how to garden without plastic
- on setting up low-cost micro farm irrigation
- on cutting edge tomato trellising techniques
- on setting up an efficient wash-pack station
- and much more
Accommodations in and around Goshen
Workshop participants are responsible for transportation and finding their own accommodations. There are several affordable Airbnb options in and around Goshen (such as this one near the farm, or the Half-Moon Cottage a few miles away) as well as hotels. In addition, we recommend the Red Bridge Retreat, the Inn on South 5th, and Roselane Bed and Breakfast.
2026 Workshop participants
Cancellation Policy
We understand that conflicts arise, so we allow for cancellations up to 15 days prior to the start of the workshop. Particpants will be refunded the full cost of the workshop, minus a $40 processing fee. No refund will be issued for cancellations less than 15 days prior to the start of the workshop.
Daniel M., 2024 workshop participant
Ben's book and workshop have made me feel like I can finally start my dream farm without it completely overwhelming me and taking over my family's life. The workshop was wonderful, and Ben and his crew could not be more kind and helpful.
Laura M., 2024 workshop participant
I am so grateful to Ben, Nicole, and Rachel for a workshop that far exceeded my expectations. I learned so much, both practical and theoretical. The thought, effort, and care put into the workshop were uplifting and inspiring, and well worth the cost.
Nirit T.Z., 2024 workshop participant
Thank you again for the well organized weekend. It was very educational and inspiring! It feels wonderful to be a part of a community of growers. We even got to experience the Goshen local scene, what a treat!
Julie H., 2025 workshop participant
The workshop offers a wealth of knowledge and resources. The time was well spent with Ben giving attention to individual and group specific interests while still covering all topics the workshop advertises. The presentations were clear with time for questions and an individual consultation with Ben. Nicole does an incredible job with communication and attention to detail. This is a must for any new or seasoned farmer wanting to learn more and grow efficiently and profitably.
Bruce H., 2026 workshop participant
The workshop was both a very productive and enjoyable weekend experience. Ben's team pulled it off with the efficiency and warmth that characterizes his whole operation. The systems and equipment Ben has developed in collaboration with equipment suppliers I view as revolutionary in terms of increasing the efficiency, reducing costs, and supporting the financial viability of small (and even micro) farms. Ben is now sharing this model with the community and the world through very readable and practical books, workshops, online courses, and more - it's an impressive operation and a major contribution to the sustainable local ag movement.